J.C. Higgins Model 60 12 Gauge Gas-Operated Semi-Auto Shotgun, 22 Inch Barrel, Williams Peep Rear Sight, Adjustable Ported Chokemaster
Built by High Standard for Sears under the J.C. Higgins brand, this Model 60 is a U.S.-made, gas-operated semi-automatic 12 gauge introduced in 1956—among the first of its type marketed in the United States. It features a 22-inch steel barrel with a threaded muzzle and a Chokemaster installed, plus a side-mounted Williams peep rear sight. Chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells with a 4+1 tubular magazine, it blends early gas-gun history with useful upgrades and a clean, shiny bore.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: There is minor finish loss and isolated surface pitting in spots. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- J.C. Higgins Model 60 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun (as configured with Williams aperture rear sight and adjustable ported Chokemaster-type choke/compensator)
Manufactured by High Standard for Sears, this J.C. Higgins Model 60 reflects an important step in American shotgun development. Introduced in 1956, it is one of the early gas-operated semi-automatic shotguns offered to the U.S. market. This example is chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells and uses a 4+1 tubular magazine.
The 22-inch steel barrel has a matted rib and a threaded muzzle fitted with an adjustable, ported Chokemaster-type choke/compensator. The front bead is mounted on the choke body. The Chokemaster installed provides threaded adjustability at the muzzle, consistent with the gun’s documented barrel features.
Sighting is enhanced by a side-mounted Williams micrometer-style aperture rear sight paired with the front bead—clearly noted here as a Williams peep rear sight. This setup offers an aperture-style sight picture while retaining the traditional front bead location on the choke assembly.
The hardwood stock and forend are checkered, with a pistol-grip profile and a grip-cap medallion. Length of pull measures 14.5 inches. The steel receiver and barrel wear a blued finish. Barrel markings include 'J.C. HIGGINS MODEL 60 – 12 GA' and 'PROOF TESTED – 12 GA – 2 3/4 CHAMBERED.' No serial number is observed, which is consistent with pre-1968 U.S.
production practices.