Winchester Model 12 Field Grade 12 Gauge Pump-Action Shotgun, 26 Inch Barrel, 1937 Production, Poly-Choke Equipped
This pre-war Winchester Model 12 Field Grade combines 1930s hand-fitted steel construction with a period-correct aftermarket Poly-Choke, giving the shooter on-the-fly choke selection without sacrificing the shotgun’s classic lines. Built in 1937, it still features the takedown design, smooth slam-fire capable action, and finely checkered walnut furniture that made the Model 12 a mainstay in American field and clays shooting.
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: Scattered scratches, small blemishes, and areas of finish loss are visible on the receiver and barrel, consistent with honest field use.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 12 Field Grade 12 Gauge pump-action shotgun with 26 inch barrel and installed Poly-Choke adjustable compensator
Produced under serial number range 740XXX, this shotgun dates to 1937, placing it squarely in the highly regarded pre-WWII manufacturing era when Model 12 parts were individually hand-fitted from forged steel.
The 26 inch barrel is stamped WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL and mates to the receiver through the Model 12’s quick takedown system, allowing rapid separation of the barrel/magazine assembly for transport or cleaning.
An aftermarket Poly-Choke replaces the factory muzzle, giving the shooter user-selectable choke constriction from cylinder to full—ideal for adapting to changing field or range conditions without swapping barrels.
The action remains slam-fire capable: hold the trigger and cycle the ribbed walnut slide handle for rapid follow-up shots. A cross-bolt safety provides conventional manual control.
Original walnut furniture includes a pistol-grip stock with crisp checkering and a ribbed slide handle, both still solid and well-fit. Length of pull measures 13.5 inches. The top of the receiver is finely line-milled to cut glare when tracking fast targets.