Winchester Model 23 XTR Pigeon Grade 12 Gauge SxS, 26 in, 3 in Chambers, Fixed IC/Mod, Factory Engraved
This Winchester Model 23 XTR Pigeon Grade is a factory-engraved, Japanese-made side-by-side in 12 gauge with 26-inch barrels and 3-inch chambers. It features fixed Improved Cylinder and Modified chokes, a ventilated and matted rib marked "PIGEON GRADE," and a coin-finished, engraved receiver with pigeon motif and WINCHESTER cartouche. The beavertail forend and checkered walnut pistol-grip stock with recoil pad and white-line spacer round out a well-executed field-ready configuration with matching receiver and forend iron assembly numbers observed.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: There is a spot of pitting on the left bore roughly 5 inches from the muzzle. Minor scratches and blemishes are present on the wood furniture and the metal finish. The locking lug shows a decent amount of life remaining. The action opens with very little resistance. The stock has a neutral cast.
What’s Included
- Original case
The Model 23 XTR Pigeon Grade is a side-by-side, break-action boxlock with a single trigger and a two-round capacity. This example is chambered in 12 gauge with 3-inch (76 mm) chambers and 26-inch barrels, offering a compact, fast-handling setup suitable for a variety of field loads.
The barrels are fixed-bore with fixed Improved Cylinder and Modified chokes. A ventilated, matted top rib carries a front bead and is marked "PIGEON GRADE," providing a clean sighting plane and a distinctive model designation.
Metalwork is highlighted by blued barrels and a coin-finished receiver. Factory engraving includes scrollwork, a pigeon motif on the underside, rosettes at the hinge pins, and a WINCHESTER cartouche. Markings include "MADE IN JAPAN, NEW HAVEN, CONN., U.S.A." and the gun shows matching receiver and forend iron assembly numbers observed.
The walnut furniture features a checkered pistol-grip stock and a beavertail forend for confident handling. A recoil pad with a white-line spacer completes the stock, and the neutral cast suits a wide range of shooters.