Winchester Model 12 Pigeon Grade Skeet 28 Gauge Pump-Action Shotgun, 28" Solid Rib Barrel, 1929 Production
This early Pigeon Grade Model 12 left the Winchester factory in 1929 and is chambered in the scarce 28 gauge. Built on a takedown action, it carries the factory-applied pigeon stamp and features deluxe feather-crotch walnut furniture, a solid milled rib, and a fixed Skeet choke. Its combination of low production numbers, high-grade finish, and desirable small-bore chambering makes it a standout example for collectors and dedicated skeet shooters alike.
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: Light scattered scratches are present on the blued steel surfaces, and the walnut stock shows minor handling marks. Checkering remains crisp, and the bore is bright with no pitting.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 12 Pigeon Grade Skeet 28 gauge shotgun (serial number 563180 with factory pigeon stamp)
Produced only a few years after Winchester introduced the 28 gauge option, this shotgun represents one of the earliest small-bore Pigeon Grade variants. The serial number 563180 places its manufacture firmly in 1929, well before World War II and long before later production changes.
The 28" Winchester Proof Steel barrel carries a factory solid milled rib and a fixed Skeet choke—an ideal setup for clay targets. Combined with the 2 ⅞" chamber and a 2+1 capacity, it delivers smooth cycling and fast follow-up shots for the skeet field.
Deluxe feather-crotch walnut is used for both the pistol-grip stock and the skeet-length extended forend. Hand-cut checkering provides a secure hold, while the 14.25" length of pull offers a comfortable, natural mount.
The blued steel receiver houses the internal-hammer pump action that made the Model 12 famous for its slick operation and reliability. As a takedown design, the shotgun breaks down quickly for transport or maintenance without tools.