From the Vault: Winchester Model 12 Shotgun

[@garethoreilly6948]

I'm from south africa and I must say I absolutely love you guys not a day goes by when I don't watch at least 5 video's 😅... I love the USA's🇺🇸 passion and love for firearms I just wish my country's gun laws wasn't as strict as it is but oh well 🤷‍♂️ #BrownellsAddict much love gents from SA 🇿🇦

[@cayminlast]

I was raised around firearms growing up in SA, Camping, fishing and spending time in the bushveld. Relocated to the US some thirty odd years ago, and living around the Everglades National Park area, has allowed me to continue my passion for the outdoors lifestyle. Beste Wense Boet.

[@garethoreilly6948]

@@cayminlast I'm so happy for you I honestly don't think there's a better life than the outdoors... Who knows maybe I'll relocate to The states so I can follow this passion aswell God willing 💪

[@LuvBorderCollies]

You only need one shotgun when you have Model 12 Winchester. :)

[@landonbelcher4409]

@@garethoreilly6948 I hope one day you can come to the states

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@LuvBorderCollies Or an 870 , or a 37 , or a 20

[@MrJohnBoat]

Well, just figured out that the model 12 I got handed down from Grandpa is a take down. Never knew, don't even think my Dad knew. Thanks for the video.

[@chipsterb4946]

Lol it never occurred to me that my Dad’s goose gun was a “takedown” model. It does come apart easily.

[@LuvBorderCollies]

Then its probably still very tight. The adjusting mechanism/design built into the barrel extension is to compensate for wear caused by frequently taking it down. If you don't do that then it'll stay tight for 300 years. :)

[@jakeandquake1783]

Um i collect model 12s and there is no model 12 that isnt a takedown, they all were, and its pretty obvious because there a locking lever and you can literally see where it comes apart, not shaming you just saying its an interesting firearm to study and this is mostly common knowledge among people with old guns

[@daviddaloia638]

Me as well. I have pictures with my Grandad with the gun. he was young then. I had no idea it was a break down ether.

[@bobspring6723]

Too bad I couldn't c how u broke it down.

[@mitchellross2400]

In 1998, I bought a Mdl. 12 in 12 gauge, full choke, takedown, made in 1936. The receiver was drilled to add a peep sight, and it looks like the barrel has grooves in it from the previous owner using steel shot. "What fools these mortals be!" (Shakespeare). Still my favorite shotgun. No interruptor. Glad to hear there are still parts available. Keep up the good videos. Thanks!

[@bjsavage9401]

I was just given a model 12 by my father he found it in the woods up against a tree 15 years ago when clearing woods for a building. Been sitting in his shed. I just got it home I’m exited to try and bring it back to life

[@kylecarpenter40]

grandpa bought 3 of them together back in the day. his and the 2 boys. someday 2 of the 3 will get passed down to me and boy are they still sweet shotguns

[@jason200912]

he should pass them down now so he can actually enjoy it with you rather than wait for himself to die and never see you enjoy it.

[@credibilityguy]

Interesting information. I have one of these hanging on my wall in my waterfowl themed dining room. It was gifted to me from my Uncle many years ago and I used a few times for pheasant and turkey hunting. After seeing this video I checked the serial number and discovered mine was manufactured in 1927. I now have a greater appreciation for this nice old shotgun.

[@hopewilliams6705]

I would like to see an old Ithaca shotgun

[@Crowbrother7]

I have a cut down one...18.5" barrel. Absolutely love the take down feature, fits well into a back pack or suitcase. I believe mine was made in 1929. Still in very good condition and functions well. Ahhhh...the craftsmanship of the old days!!!

[@holywicked4202]

I have a model 12 made in 39 with the long barrel absolutely love it. It functions flawlessly I've never had any issues with it and it's definitely an heirloom gun

[@randyr766]

My father traded a German Luger for one after WWII. He needed a hunting gun. Now it’s in perfect condition in my safe. I still use it and I think of Dad every time I do.

[@thekalamazookid4481]

That's not a bad trade. One timeless classic for another.

[@jedermachtigallmighty7345]

That's a great Shotgun!! Well Made and trusty. Please show an Ithaca too

[@michaelcrossman9692]

One of my favorite weapons. Grew up duck hunting with a Model 12 in 20 gauge. My father-in-law passed down his Model 12 in 20 gauge to me and it works flawlessly today. Love the video, except that your camera angle and distance does not show how to take it apart. Thanks again for this walk down memory lane.

[@skootermcshooter5969]

Exactly I just left the same comment above. Didn't mean to walk over your comment...hahahahahaa AND IT NEEDS A CLOSE UP AS WELL.

[@kennethcharlie5194]

I have a model 12 -16 gage I was cleaning it I took the bottom platte on the stock to tighten up the stock because it was loose and it had a peace of paper inside that little hole and it was a 1937 hunting license I didn’t know you had to have a hunting license back then I love my gun it works well

[@briarbarnes2025]

I just bought a model 12-12 gauge in nickel steel with the 30 inch barrel full choke. Serial numbers place it manufactured in 1921. After a slight barrel adjustment it fires beautifully holding wonderfully tight groups at 30-40 yards.

[@rogermonson6327]

I have a Winchester Model 12 that I got from my grandpa when I was 14 years old….. I’m now almost 60. It was my ONLY shotgun until October this year. I broke down and bought a Benelli. I love that old model 12. It’s been a great gun and still works perfectly!

[@theol3199]

I have a 12 ga one with a 21” barrel I use for deer hunting, thing kicks but is super accurate with slugs.

[@DelEast740]

I own a 1938 Winchester 12. It was my grandfather's 21st birthday present when he got it in 39. The receiver is what cost the money. Mine runs shells flawless after 83 years. Turkey hunting in Vinton county Ohio this spring with it.

[@jamiewegner2259]

I got a model 12 20gauge from my grandfather before he passed. My great grandfather bought the gun new in 1912. I cherish that gun every time I get it out the safe, the wear and tear tell its story.

[@willglo]

Love the Winchester 1300 Defender 12ga.!... 7+1 capacity with an 18" barrel... Wish they still made it!

[@larrymoore1304]

My dad's go to gun. 30 inch full choke. Nearly everyone who hunted with my dad had a story about him and that model 12.

[@josephbrown1733]

I just got a 30” full choke model 12 myself. Hopefully your dads love for it will bring me luck and many great times in the field!

[@drakec.9327]

Mine is also 30" full choke made in 1919 still works fine.@@josephbrown1733

[@paulstaney325]

Model 12 Trap?

[@MashBill]

One of my favs. I have both a 20 and a 12 gauge. I also have a Model 42 .410.

[@joeschade]

The Model 12 is beautiful indeed. I love mine!

[@mikecampbell5856]

I have my grandpa's 1908 H&R reinforced breech. Made in the 20s. I inherited it in 1973. Still shoots pretty well.

[@5415speir1]

Good afternoon. I grew up with a model 12 16ga as my father received one in 1942 . I still have that gun. I’m 65 years old and have quite an extensive collection of them. I wanted to comment about my youngest son who is now 15. He has competed in the SCTP nationals for three years now and used a 1960 model 12 with a WS1 barrel for the skeet events. And he used a 1917 model 12 trap with a 32” barrel for the trap events. I started him on a 1912 29 gauge at age 8. He can pump that gun as fast if not faster than most kids with an over and under. He shoots a OU for sporting clays . The kids at these events practically laugh at him because of an old gun. But once they see what he can do they shut up. Best gun ever made .

[@junkyardwillie8320]

Love my model 12. It’s chambered for 16 gauge, made in 1948, and was the first functioning gun i ever owned, given to me when i was 12 by a friend of my dad’s. It’s in excellent condition, been taken care of well by who ever it belonged to for nearly 70 years, and i don’t think i’ll ever part with it

[@Brook2400]

Timeless pieces of weaponry!

[@dualline]

My model 12 was my grand Pappys varmint gun. At least that’s what my dad told me. It works perfectly, and carries two different serial numbers, one on the barrel section and one on the receiver section. The stock as well shows signs of being a back-woods project piece. The full Cutt’s choke is a mean looking muzzle device, completing the badassary. Pretty sure the chunk-chunk sound alone would clear my home of trespassers.

[@lisamcarthur6175]

My dads uncle gave him his model 12 when my dad got back from WWII. My dad passed it on to me. I wouldn’t take anything for it.

[@rmwtsou]

Mine is a Model 12 "Heavy Duck" with a 30" full choke barrel. It was made in the same year as I was born, 1953, and is in perfect condition.

[@waydegardner7373]

My grandfather passed down his full choke model 12 to my Dad now I have it. Ser# places it manufactured in 1919. Still shoots straight after 102 years.

[@credibilityguy]

I have one of these that was given to me by my Uncle. He received it from the wife of one of his customers after her husband had died and she did not want the gun in the house. I kept it for several years and shot it a few times but never used it for hunting and eventually we hung it on the wall because it is such a nice looking old weapon. I was surprised a couple of months ago when I did some research on it just out of curiosity and I was pleased to learn what it is that I have. Based on the serial number mine was made in 1932. It has a long barrel so I assume it was used for or at least intended for waterfowl hunting.

[@jeffro7p202]

I Have this same gun in 20g. My grandpa gave it to me along with his remington 760 gamemaster pump rifle in 300 sav.

[@toadstool1404]

One of my biggest gun purchase regrets is not immediately picking up a Model 12 takedown with two barrels. One 20” barrel, forget the second length. Went back two days later...gone. Still want a Model 12...😔

[@brittcamp28]

My dad had one and I loved the balance and it pointed so naturally for me

[@josephbrown1733]

Just purchased myself a 30” full choke model 12. Made in 1963. Looking forward to getting it in my hands and seeing how she handles.

[@altonlynch5464]

My dad has one that he has had for around 70 years, it's always been his favorite.

[@theendlessexplorer9373]

My grandfather gave me his 1941. breakdown model 12. He got it before he went to fight in the pacific theater. My favorite gun! Work of art. I shoot skeet with it and beat everyone else.

[@jimrow6704]

Got my grandfather's Model 12 3" (goose gun?) along with a Model 42. Love them both.

[@joewilliams4142]

I just inherited a 16ga version, well used and smooth. Love it.

[@burtonexoticbullies.2313]

Can i still use 13 gauge shells in a 16 gauge?

[@timwilkerson8867]

Love my 1943 16 gauge take down, i was lucky enough to find it in a pawn shop!

[@davidfisher12865]

Mine was made in 1929, still runs perfectly. Had to tighten up the headspace a notch, you can do that with a model 12.

[@gizmocarr3093]

Brownells inc. The Winchester Model 12 was superior to all pump action shotguns in its day. Truthfully still is. Look close and compare the workmanship of one. The receiver has no exposed pins and is made from steel. It is better balanced and light weight and still made of all steel parts. You could buy trap models, skeet models, and ones with solid steel ribs and ones without. The highly engraved models are works of art. Current pump action shotguns are cheaper to make and work fine. However, when you compare them to a classic model 12 there is no comparison. I believe all model 12 guns were takedown models. The barrel was adjustable for a tight fit by two small ratchet gears under the breach of the barrel. You are a Gunsmith and the craftsmen who made these guns were too. The difference is; they fit and made each part to perfection without computers, CNC machines and robotics. Cheaper is cheaper, but has little to do with better. I wonder where most Mossberg 500 guns will be when they hit 109 years old?

[@leecaptis5865]

Gizmo , thanks for the tip..The barrel threads are adjustable !! My #12 has a whisper of play right at that point. Can't stand that. I will have that checked out. Mine was built in 1955 , by the serial number.

[@fredguitarman3536]

@@leecaptis5865 there's an adjustment when the barrel assb is removed you will see an adjustment ,unscrew the adjustment screw and move adjustment notch one tooth at a time . AGI Tecnical manual Arnorer's Course CD Winchester model 12 showes how to adjust the tightness

[@abee.s.corpus2455]

I'm a cowboy action shooter and also enjoy Wild Bunch Action Shooting which is sort of like Three Gun, except with firearms from 1913-ish. Originally the Winchester 1897 was the only shotgun allowed, but the rules were changed to allow the Model 12, which quickly became the favorite shotgun in Wild Bunch. With 2 million made, it is easier to find a Model 12 than a shootable '97 these days, and they tend to be more durable than the '97. I came across a mechanically sound example that was covered with surface rust but it cleaned up well. I replaced the stock and forend with the narrower pieces from the earlier production. A really well made firearm, the likes of which will not be seen again. The shell stop in the magazine took a little getting used to.

[@guaporeturns9472]

All the firearms from the era are just so much better made .. and they have character.. walnut and blued steel.

[@bobhaehn5470]

1st shotgun I ever fired. My dad bought a 20 ga just after returning from WW II. Served him well and now one of his grandsons has it and his daughter slug hunts deer with it in OH

[@markburrell2778]

Finest shotgun ever made.

[@CaptainRon956]

I have a 1953 model 12 in 16 gauge. 28” barrel with fixed modified choke. Found it at my local pawn store

[@senditc20]

Just fired one yesterday it’s such an amazing experience shooting that shotgun I need one of my own

[@brianbumgardner8704]

I inherited a Remington model 10 in 16 gage from my dad. It still works and shoots great.

[@Vanarh_]

If you own this gun because of Grandpa, go ahead and hit that like button

[@CozySER]

I have this shotgun bought it two weeks ago, shes a beauty

[@markburrell2778]

Best shotgun ever made.

[@klemon4228]

Inherited my great grandfathers model 12 in a 16 gauge - used it pheasant hunting as a kid now sleep with it under my bed for home protection - it’s a cool gun that still feels great and looks good over a hundred years after it’s inception - hope to pass it along to the next generation

[@craigwilliams6098]

What a coincidence, last night I felt the desire to pull my 1958 model 12 featherweight out of the safe. Fine shot guns. I really regret not picking up a set of 3, a 12 gauge, 16 and 20, from a scheels some years back.

[@AMF96]

I also have a model 12 featherweight. I bought it back in 2014 as my first shotgun and love it. I bought it from the original owner. He said it was manufactured and sold to him in 1960. After doing some further research I discovered that the featherweight models were only manufactured from like March 1958 to February 1959. I originally had heard that the featherweight models were manufactured 1959-1962 but my further research suggests that, that’s not true. Winchester just didn’t sell them all that fast to begin with and had some of them on hand until 1962. Do you happen to know how many featherweight models were built? I had heard 1,000 or less but I’m not entirely sure. Mine has 341 engraved in the barrel. Does that mean it’s # 341 produced?

[@filster1934]

On Model 12’s, always check the barrel/receiver for excessive play. They can get loose over time but usually can be brought back in with the threaded chamber ring.

[@bosse641]

So cool. Want one that's for sure.

[@michaelkennedy996]

I have a Model 12. It’s my favorite shotgun. I picked it up fairly cheaply as someone tried to re blue it and it turned out kind of purple. It’s old and loose like me but still works and feels like I’m holding a piece of history. I giggle every shot whether I hit or not.

[@michaelkennedy996]

It is a takedown model.

[@healyburnham393]

Winchester outsmarted it's sales dept. by creating a 3-4 generation shotgun.

[@guaporeturns9472]

12 is awesome but I’m kinda partial to the Remington 31. Both awesome though

[@MichaelJacobi01]

Just picked up a Model 12 today!!

[@jimdavenport8020]

ALL Model 12s were 'takedown models'. There was a brief production of a 'straight frame' (non-takedown) version as the Model 25 in an attempt to decrease manufacturing costs. Production continued after 1964 from the Winchester Custom Shop, however the Post-64 guns are considered to not have the quality of the Pre-64s despite coming from the Custom Shop.

[@LuvBorderCollies]

I had a 1977-78 M12 Trap from the Custom Shop. It was nice enough but it just did not have the same feel as say the pre-war M12's or a Simmons worked M12 Trap on a vintage model.

[@caseysimpson1806]

A Winchester Model 12 site shows mine was made in 1935. 16-gauge, full choke, 28-inch barrel. The bluing is virtually gone; however, from a mechanical standpoint, the gun is in great shape. I have used it for doves, rabbits, and squirrels. I am not going to re-blue it. Confession: sometimes I open my gun safe just to look at it and appreciate the quality craftmanship.

[@MrYuck-vm6om]

I got mine for 60$ and replaced the broken pin amd works like a dream. 1923. 101 years old almost 102 and still going strong.

[@aeioubread]

I adore my 16ga model 12, cutts compensator and all

[@zh3401]

Icon of American shotguns, truly. What about a piece on 10 gauge shotguns? My grand dad had a Marlin Super Goose 10 gauge. I loved that gun. He found a spare barrel and cut it down to 26" for deer hunting. It got the job done. Might you have a Winchester model 1901 or perhaps an Ithaca in the vault?

[@noneed4me2n7]

Just inherited a non take down 12 gauge variant from my dad. Wasn’t really interested in it wanted the semi auto 22 Remington but my brother wanted his US model 1917 instead so I took the model 12 as I wasn’t interested in the 1917 since it was sporterized. Nothing wrong with that but I prefer my rifles how they came. Oh and I got the 22 rifle also. Other than a pistol and my No4 Enfield I don’t have huge collection but the ones I use to shoot with my dad mean a lot to me.

[@ironked]

I have a 1927 Model 12 in 12. It's currently in pieces awaiting conservation. On the whole, though, it's in good condition. Yours has about the same unblued patina. In the store I asked the guy how the barrel came off for cleaning. He twisted it apart and I was sold. That push, then pull forend action takes some getting used to. I found a 20" barrel that was probably cut down, no bead. Thought about "trenching" it. Maybe not, once I saw the complication involved getting a repro front band/lug. Would love to have a leather travel case I've seen.

[@a.z.marketingagency]

got a chance to shoot a military model 12 trench gun super fun to shoot

[@John-ty6vw]

Just received this hand-me-down from my dad, who got it from his grandfather. Not sure how it dates but the list of patent dates stop on Jully 22 1913, so I would like to believe its an early model.

[@jcindestin8611]

I have a takedown model from 1922. Recently inherited it. Only flaws are minor pitting on top of the barrel and the buttstock is cracked in three different areas. Addressing these issues

[@LuvBorderCollies]

Trivia: One reason (of a number) my grampa bought a new M12 in 1924 was they were advertised as being jam-proof. Fired many thousands of rounds myself though it with no feeding problems. Only a worn/defective reload with a split at the crimp roll would cause a feed hangup. Put decent ammo in it and it'll shoot for a century and longer.

[@shannonpinion5729]

I went through combat shotgun with a model 12 they are great guns

[@KendrasEdge757]

I want the next ‘from the vault’ to be a whole episode of Calebs Hair!

[@robertstayton298]

I have my dad's model 42 in 410.

[@LuvBorderCollies]

Lovely little guns. They've been very popular with collector types the past 30 years, maybe longer. Their value never dropped like the 12 gage when steel shot was required for waterfowl. I've had 16 ga and still have a 20 ga but never a 42. Take care of it. :)

[@DavidS-pt7hc]

Have my fathers md12 made in 1947 in 16ga. Has a higher grade wood on the stock but I guess he didn’t care for the forearm so he made one to fit him and he installed a polychoke. Wish he would have kept the original forearm but I’m just thankful to have it.

[@LuvBorderCollies]

Takedown models: in the late 1800s until well into the 1900s. It was common for people from urban areas of the Northeast like NYC to ride the subway/trains from cities out to hunting areas. So takedowns of all kinds were made along with the special leather covered "hard" cases designed for compact packages. Out in the Midwest and West this wasn't such a concern but came in handy at times. My first M12 was from my grandfather who bought it new in 1924. I forget how many months pay it cost, IIRC it was 3 months. Cost was around $65 for the plain barrel field 12 ga. He was a market hunter well into the 1930s despite what any published "history" will tell you. It was very worn when I got it. The old time gunsmith who rebuilt it said he'd never one so worn out. I've handled many many hundreds of M12s in 50 years and have to agree with the gunsmith's statement. I don't use it much as I've got a bunch of others. Best pump shotgun ever made.!! Unfortunately the steel shot craze really squashed the market for the average M12. I really wish a steel shot barrel was available. Hastings made some steel shot barrels years ago but not enough as only 22" barrels were left when I found out about it. FWIW Gander Mountain had sold many of them and installed them.

[@buddysumner4022]

The best pump shot gun ever made, ever

[@bwuest]

I have my Grandpa's Model 12. It was the next to last one made in 1920.

[@ronaldbradley9949]

My dad gave me a Model 12 in 16 gauge. I don't hunt anymore none of my kids hunt. So I sold it to my cousin's son. He jumped on it he seen me hunt with it and the fact it was my dad's at one time he wanted it.

[@12GageBurton]

Just bought a U.S. Army riot gun. Serial number says she was built in 1943. Big fan of classic Americana like this.

[@normskvarca]

Another great From the Vault video. As for suggestions; Remington 1858 or Walther PPK. Both are personal favorites and I would like to see your take on either/both of them. Please keep the great videos coming!

[@brownells]

Thank you!

[@88Blazehaze]

Nice vid man! great gun. Next Winchester ranger model 120 ?

[@inthewoods3237]

Wish you’d have shown the end of the pump take down up close? I hopefully will inherit one

[@Bayan1905]

They didn't make a .410 Model 12, but they did make a 28 gauge Model 12 starting in 1934. They are very, very rare.

[@landrecce]

I really enjoyed that. I've got one. I believe the serial number is from 1918. It's a take down too, and if I'm not mistaken, it has some potential to be a police riot gun, but I could be wrong. What's really great about it, is the slam fire!

[@neuzdost1939]

Is that fricking AT-4 in your gun locker?

[@mikechess5081]

Caleb, Please slow down the steps to disassemble the Model 12. I own several and know there are steps and tricks to the take down... and re-assembly

[@justinweaver8787]

Nice gun love it.

[@briwesk]

i have one of these, and based on the serial number, its from 1919. it was found rusted to hell and i cleaned off all the rust and im trying to re-blue it, but its not coming out well. seems after re-bluing, rust comes back. (barrel was cut and stock was cut as well, so thats why i am restoring it. someone already butchered it)

[@shireofthedead1]

Just picked up a 1946 U.S Army issued model 12 the other day.

[@leyderness3553]

First shotgun I used in law enforcement. Very dependable, had to be.

[@zacharyherrington9622]

Had a 16 gauge made in 39 it was a really good gun the firing pin broke and we got a new one but other than that it never had a problem by the way it still worked with a broken firing pin

[@chuck553]

I have my fathers model 12- 16 ga. Best pheasant gun.

[@brownells]

Awesome!

[@davidcampbell9857]

The Model 12 and 1200s rule! Only got a 870 because of the steel shot issues for goose hunting. And after learning shotgunning with the Winchester you have to totally hate the location of the action unlock button on Rems! I always push with my thumb a button that is not there on the Remington and remember oh ya it's that ugly sharp stamped out plate in the worst location that does not flow with a right or left hand.

[@bimboalabama5649]

My Great Grandfather had a 1912 shotgun he used for duck hunting. He had some kinda custom adjustable muzzle device attached to the end of the barrel.

[@kagyu1]

That’s an adjustable choke. Collectible .

[@Jake-mm1cz]

Not sure if you’ve brought the Swedish Ljungman out lately . A lot of shooters never heard of one . Or Know how dangerous the Garand thumb can be on this model . Or that it was the first direct impingement grand daddy of the AR ... look forward to your video’s . Thanks 🙏

[@John1911]

Yeah. Good video suggestion. Put your thumb in a Ljungman, and you’re known as, “Johnny-4-fingers” ever after. Regards, Marky

[@glenking3337]

Love it. Mine is from 1914.

[@Lucastrujillo59]

Great video thank you for sharing

[@brownells]

Thank you for watching!

[@ozgott1415]

My dad gave me his very first shotgun that he purchased with his own money when he was 16 years old in 1964. Its a model 12 that was manufactured in 1914. I'm wondering if this is still safe to shoot.... its in excellent condition, I broke it down and cleaned it, put it back together and the action is crisp and smooth. Is there any 12 guage ammo that this thing can't handle? Because it feels like a mini howitzer and I'm really wanting to take it out and shoot it.

[@javiermoretti1825]

I inherited my dad's Model 12. It's in perfect condition like yours. Almost too pretty to fire.

[@lesschattermoresplatter5769]

I’ve always been curious if the model 12 and model 97 barrels are interchangeable.

[@tommygun6028]

Great Video Thanks

[@robm1991]

Where do you see the date it was manufactured? How much do they go if they are in very good condition??