Make: Browning, made by Miroku (Japan)

Model: 12

Serial Number: 03984PN832

Year of Manufacture: 1989

Caliber: 20 Gauge, 2 3/4” Chamber

Action Type: Pump Action Takedown Shotgun fed by Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 26”, Vent Rib

Choke: Modified, Fixed

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bead fixed to the rib above the muzzle. The top of the rib is serrated to help reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut featuring a capped semi-pistol grip, a straight comb and a textured black plastic Browning buttplate. There are a few small marks on the bottom-left of the forend between the checkering panels. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has faint wear at the heel. The stocks are in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its original metal finish. There are a couple of minor marks on the top-rear of the receiver. The action show s faint operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: What a beautiful shotgun! When Browning had these shotguns produced by Miroku, Winchester had discontinued both the Model 12 and 42, making this a first opportunity for some and a last opportunity for many to get their hands on new production guns. Some of this production run was given over to standard Grade I guns, but there were also a limited number of Grade V guns produced. The production runs for the 20 and 28 gauge Model 12s were separate while there was some overlap of production of the Model 42. This Grade I is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen limited if any use. This shotgun will take a prized place in any collection. If you’re a collector of Winchester or Browning shotguns, don’t let this pass you by, this is a visually striking homage to the best 20 gauge ever made. Please see our photos and good luck in your bidding!