Iver Johnson Champion Model 36 .410 Bore Single-Shot Top-Break Shotgun, 26 Inch Barrel, 2 1/2 Inch Chamber, Full Choke (c. 1916–1921)
This Iver Johnson Champion Model 36 is a .410 bore, single-shot, top-break shotgun from the Fitchburg, Massachusetts era, circa 1916–1921. It features a 26-inch barrel with a fixed Full choke and a 2 1/2-inch chamber, an exposed hammer, and clear factory markings. The bore is clean with a mirror finish, and the gun retains matching serials on the tang and inside the forend. A Browning-branded rubber recoil pad has been added.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal shows significant markings and finish loss from previous handling and use. The stock has a crack and a chip that make it loose. A qualified gunsmith should inspect the firearm before firing.
What’s Included
- Iver Johnson Champion Model 36 .410 Bore single-shot shotgun
The Champion Model 36 action is a single-shot, top-break design with an exposed hammer and an extractor present. Capacity is 1 round. The chamber is cut for 2 1/2-inch .410 shells, and the barrel is fitted with a fixed Full choke for tighter patterns with shot loads.
The 26-inch barrel is marked ".410 GAUGE CHOKE BORE BARREL AND LUG FORGED IN ONE - PAT'D JUNE 15 15 - PAT'S PENDING." It carries a fixed front brass bead and no rear sight. The barrel and lug are forged in one piece, a detail called out explicitly in the factory marking.
The left side of the receiver is marked "IVER JOHNSON'S ARMS & CYCLE WORKS FITCHBURG, MASS. U.S.A." with "CHAMPION" branding. Matching serial numbers are present on the tang and inside the forend. An ejector was not verified.
Furniture includes a wood semi-pistol-grip buttstock and a splinter forend, with a 13.75-inch length of pull. A Browning-branded rubber recoil pad is installed, adding a period-style upgrade to the buttstock.