Winchester Model 12 Field Grade 16 Gauge Pump Shotgun – 28" Barrel, Pre-War 1939
Built in 1939, this pre-64 Winchester Model 12 Field Grade exemplifies the machining and finish quality that earned the design the nickname “The Perfect Repeater.” Chambered in 16 gauge with a 28-inch barrel and the smooth, slam-fire capable action collectors prize, it features a period-correct 14-groove corn-cob forend and a polished blued refinish that highlights its classic lines.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
The shotgun was professionally refinished, resulting in an even, polished blue on the receiver, barrel, and magazine tube. Minor, superficial scratches and small handling marks are present but do not affect function or appearance.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 12 Field Grade 16 Gauge pump-action shotgun
Introduced in 1912 and produced in excess of two million units, the Model 12 set a high bar for pump-action reliability. This 1939 example sits squarely in the coveted pre-war production era, when Winchester’s hand-fitting and polish were at their peak.
The 2 ¾-inch chamber and 28-inch barrel make this shotgun versatile for field use, while the sleek 16 gauge configuration offers a balanced feel and manageable recoil. The bore remains shiny, illustrating careful maintenance over the decades.
An internal-hammer design and absence of a disconnector allow true slam-fire capability—holding the trigger while pumping will discharge the next round—a hallmark feature valued by Model 12 enthusiasts.
The plain walnut stock provides a 14-inch length of pull, complemented by a steel buttplate that anchors the gun firmly to the shoulder. Up front, the 14-groove corn-cob forend offers a secure, period-correct grip.