Iver Johnson Champion Model 36 16 Gauge Single-Shot Shotgun | Early 1909-1919 Production
This Iver Johnson Champion Model 36 is an early-production, 16 gauge, break-action shotgun made between 1909 and 1919. Built with a one-piece forged barrel and lug, a fixed full choke, and Iver Johnson’s owl-logo hard-rubber buttplate, it represents a less common 16 gauge variant of the popular Champion line.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
The exterior metal shows minor to moderate scratching, scuffing, and blemishing. The walnut stock and forend display small dings and chips, and the bore has scattered pitting.
What’s Included
- Iver Johnson Champion Model 36 single-shot shotgun
Few 16 gauge Champions were produced compared to the more common 12 gauge version, giving this example added collector interest. The numeric-only serial 90731 confirms an early run and aligns with the 1909-1919 production window.
The 28 inch carbon-steel barrel is forged in one piece with its lug for strength and rigidity, and it wears its original blued finish with a fixed full choke for tight shot patterns. A simple brass bead front sight tops the ribless barrel.
The case-hardened receiver now carries an even patina, highlighting the mechanical simplicity of the break-action design. An extractor lifts the spent shell for manual removal—faithful to the utilitarian nature of the Model 36—and the rebounding hammer provides an added margin of safety.
An oil-finished walnut stock with a smooth, semi-pistol grip offers a 14 inch length of pull, capped by Iver Johnson’s distinctive owl-logo buttplate. The combination of early manufacture, 16 gauge chambering, and hallmark Champion features makes this shotgun a straightforward, collectible piece of American gunmaking.