Winchester Model 37 "Blue Belly" Steelbilt 12 Gauge Single-Shot, 30" Barrel, 2 3/4" Chamber
This post-1948 "Blue Belly" Winchester Model 37 is a Steelbilt single-shot 12 gauge with forged-steel construction, a 30-inch barrel, and a fixed Winchester Choke. It retains the factory automatic ejector and the solid thumb-pad top lever, features that appeal to shooters and collectors seeking an authentic, later-production Model 37 configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The receiver and barrel show areas of surface rust. The metal and wood display various cosmetic imperfections, scratches, blemishes, and finish loss.
What's Included
- Winchester Model 37 "Blue Belly" Steelbilt 12 Gauge single-shot shotgun with 30" barrel
This is the "Blue Belly" post-1948 Model 37 configuration, which lacks the earlier red-painted belly stamp seen on pre-1948 guns. Marketed as "STEELBILT," it highlights the use of forged steel for durability and straightforward function in a classic single-shot layout.
The 30-inch steel barrel is paired with Winchester's fixed "Winchester Choke" and a single front bead sight, providing a simple, purpose-built setup. It is chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells.
Action details include a single-shot break-open design with an external hammer spur, a factory automatic ejector, and a solid thumb-pad top lever. These are hallmark Model 37 attributes from this era.
The furniture consists of walnut with an uncheckered pistol-grip stock, a long semi-beavertail forend, and a hard-rubber buttplate. Length of pull measures 14.0 inches, offering a traditional full-size fit.
Produced in the United States, the Model 37 ran from 1936 to 1963 with over one million made, and many examples were intentionally produced without serial numbers. This later-production "Blue Belly" variant represents the post-1948 evolution of the line.