J.C. Higgins Model 20 12 Gauge Pump-Action, 28 in Barrel, Fixed Modified Choke, 2 3/4 in Chamber, Blued, Wood Stock, 5+1
This J.C. Higgins Model 20 is a Sears-branded 12 gauge pump-action shotgun built by High Standard, identified by the Sears 583 maker code. It features a 28-inch steel barrel with a fixed modified choke and a 2 3/4-inch chamber. Pre-1962 J.C. Higgins branding, High Standard lineage, and practical field features make this a notable example of the era.
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 surface pitting throughout the receiver and barrel. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- J.C. Higgins Model 20 12 gauge pump-action shotgun
Built by High Standard for Sears, this Model 20 aligns with the High Standard Model 200/Flite King lineage and carries the Sears 583 maker code and "PROOF TESTED" markings. The J.C. Higgins branding places it in the pre-1962 Sears era.
The 28-inch steel barrel uses a fixed modified choke and a 2 3/4-inch chamber, paired with a single front bead for straightforward sighting. The blued finish is on the steel barrel, magazine tube, and action sleeve, while the receiver is an anodized aluminum alloy in a matte gray.
The pump action uses twin under-barrel tubes — one for the magazine and a separate action sleeve — with right-side ejection. The receiver top has longitudinal anti-glare serrations for a clean sighting plane.
The wood stock features a pistol-grip profile with a checkered grip panel, a ventilated recoil pad, and a J.C. Higgins crest medallion, plus a blank inlay on the underside of the butt. A grooved wood forend provides a positive grip, and the length of pull measures 14.0 inches.