Winchester Model 50 Field Grade 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun, 30-Inch Full Choke, 1956 Production
The Winchester Model 50 Field Grade is a classic 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun engineered by David M. Williams and produced from 1954 to 1961. This 1956 example combines the Model 50’s unique floating-chamber, fixed-barrel system with a 30-inch full-choke barrel, creating a smooth-cycling, soft-shooting field gun that earned a solid reputation among hunters and collectors alike. Limited production numbers and its innovative action make this shotgun a noteworthy addition to any Winchester collection.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The polished blue finish displays scattered thinning, light edge wear, and small handling marks. The original buttplate has been replaced with an aftermarket brown ventilated rubber recoil pad featuring a white-line spacer.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 50 Field Grade 12 Gauge shotgun
- 30-inch full-choke barrel (fixed)
- Plug installed to limit magazine capacity to 2 rounds
- Aftermarket brown ventilated rubber recoil pad with white-line spacer (installed)
Introduced in 1954, the Model 50 was Winchester’s first production semi-automatic shotgun to use a floating-chamber, short-recoil action. This design keeps the barrel fixed while the chamber moves, reducing felt recoil and aiding reliability.
Serial number 108528 confirms 1956 manufacture, placing this shotgun squarely within the prime production years when fewer than 200,000 units were made. Its Field Grade trim maintains the understated look favored by hunters of the era.
The 30-inch Winchester Proof Steel barrel carries a factory full choke, well-suited for long-range waterfowl and upland game. A single brass bead front sight provides a clean sight picture on the plain barrel.
An aftermarket ventilated recoil pad extends the length of pull to 14 inches and further tames recoil, while the oil-finished walnut stock and forend retain their classic lines with a comfortable pistol grip.
With its 2 + 1 tubular magazine (plug installed) and 2 ¾-inch chamber, this Model 50 remains ready for field use yet holds strong appeal for Winchester enthusiasts seeking a representative example of the company’s mid-century semi-auto innovation.