Crescent Volunteer 12 Gauge Long Tom Single-Shot Shotgun, 32 in Full Choke, Pre-WWII
This Crescent Fire Arms Co. “Volunteer” is a trade-brand 12 ga. single-shot made for Belknap Hardware between 1901 and 1932. It features the desirable 32-inch “Long Tom” barrel with a fixed full (12F) choke, twin coil-spring lockwork, and an exposed hammer. Chambered for both 2 3/4 in and 3 in shells, it offers flexibility uncommon in early 20th-century economy shotguns.
Collectors looking for a representative hardware-store private-label gun from the pre-WWII era will find this example notable for its original barrel length, roll-marked “Volunteer” name, and “A” serial prefix that aligns with Crescent production records.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: The walnut stock is broken at the wrist, and the barrel locking pin is damaged, preventing a secure lock-up.
What’s Included
- Crescent Volunteer 12 ga. single-shot shotgun
The 32-inch plain-carbon-steel barrel was built for dense shot patterns at extended ranges, a hallmark of “Long Tom” designs popular with hunters of the period. The fixed full choke remains in place, and the barrel is still marked for both 2 3/4 in and 3 in shells.
An exposed hammer and break-action design keep operation straightforward. The twin coil springs—typical of Crescent economy guns—were a cost-effective alternative to leaf springs and are a recognizable feature for collectors studying early American shotgun manufacturing.
The receiver shows its original case-colored and blued finish, now worn, but still illustrating period production techniques. A brass front bead provides the sole sighting reference, consistent with the utilitarian nature of hardware-store firearms of the era.
The straight-grip walnut stock and splinter forend wear an oil finish that matches factory style. While the stock is broken, its wood type, profile, and length of pull measure (14 in.) document the factory dimensions used on Crescent’s private-label guns.