Winchester Model 23 XTR Pigeon Grade 12 Gauge Side-by-Side, 26" Barrels, Fixed M/IC Chokes
Winchester’s Model 23 XTR Pigeon Grade represents the last factory-produced, high-grade side-by-side to wear the Winchester name. Built by Olin-Kodensha in Japan between 1978 and 1987, this full-size 12 gauge features tight barrel lock-up, hand-cut scroll engraving with the classic Winchester pigeon vignette, and select American walnut finished to the high-gloss XTR standard. Its 26-inch, vent-rib barrels are chambered for 3-inch shells and set up with fixed Modified and Improved Cylinder chokes, giving the gun a versatile field pattern in a collectible, well-balanced package.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Not applicable – smooth shotgun bores.
Specific Condition Notes: The walnut carries a few small scuffs and dings, yet the factory gloss finish remains strong. Barrel fit to the frame is tight, the forend iron locks solidly, and the locking mechanism still shows good life. Ejectors are correctly timed.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 23 XTR Pigeon Grade 12 Gauge side-by-side shotgun
Manufactured during the early PWK serial block, this Model 23 represents Winchester’s final expression of the traditional double gun. The coin-finished receiver displays full-coverage scroll engraving, accented by a detailed pigeon motif on both sides and the top lever, all factory-executed and crisp.
The 26-inch steel barrels feature a ventilated rib topped with a brass bead sight, providing a clear sighting plane. Fixed Modified (right) and Improved Cylinder (left) chokes offer a balanced spread for upland birds or clays, while 3-inch chambers handle modern field loads.
The shotgun’s American walnut stock and semi-beavertail forend wear the durable, high-gloss XTR finish. A pistol grip, neutral stock with slight right-hand cast-off, and a soft rubber recoil pad support comfortable shouldering and fast swing.
A single selective trigger, tang-mounted manual safety, and factory-regulated automatic ejectors round out the action. Overall fit remains tight, underscoring the gun’s limited use and careful handling.