The first Mod 12s were actually the "Model of 1912" (check your barrel stamping to see if it's a "1912"). The very first 1912's were only 20 gauge and only 25" barrels; manufacturing started in 1912 (Duh!). All were 2-1/2" chambers to start, and were available with plain or solid ribbed barrels. The 12, 16, and 28 gauge guns followed later (some much later). My 20ga 1912 is a 1913 gun with 25" Full Choke barrel, solid rib, 2-1/2" chamber. Seems to digest 2-3/4" shells just fine; that is not always true with the short-chambered 16's. I also have a circa 1955 Mod 12in 20 gauge with a 25" plain barrel that shows no signs of having been shortened, also Full Choke; this is curious because the books say that Win did not make 25" barrels in that era, so could be a parts bin gun but numbers match.
These guns are pretty much unbreakable (except for firing pins), so if it's all there you should buy it. If there is little or no finish left, it's worth refinishing or restoring as a shooter because they are great handling guns. I paid $375 for mine about 6 years ago with no finish and good wood. I'm into it well over $1K now with new blueing and factory checkered wood, so I have probably spent too much on a pump gun. Not the first time, won't be the last. I like it.
Last edited by Replacement; 09/05/08 12:56 AM.
