Make: Winchester 

Model: 1200

Serial Number: 170447

Year of Manufacture: 1964-1968

Gauge: 12 GA, 2 3/4"

Action Type: Pump Action, Mag Tube Fed

Markings: The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial “170447”. The left side of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER – MODEL - 1200 - 12GA. - 2 ¾ CHAM. / MADE IN U.S.A. – WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL –/ CYL”. There are Winchester WP proofs on the receiver and barrel. 

Barrel Length: 20”

Choke: CYL, Fixed

Sights / Optics: The front bead has been cut flush. The barrel is mounted with a heat shield with a brass bead fixed to the top. The top of the receiver is serrated for glare reduction. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece walnut with semi-pistol grip, straight comb, belly sling swivel, Winchester vented rubber buttpad, and press-checkered pump-grip. The barrel is mounted with a late style perforated handguard with M5 Bayonet Lug and sling swivel. There is some corrosion on the cast bayonet lug which has also turned a plum color. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition. There are no cracks or chips. There is light handling wear. The checkering is attractive and sharp. 

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition:  This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operation and handling wear. There are three marks under the barrel where the threads of the three screws for the perforated handguard have cut into the barrel and removed some of the finish. There are a couple smaller rub marks on the barrel from the handguard that have removed some of the finish. There are a few scratches and scuffs on the handguard itself. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine 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: This shotgun comes with its attached leather sling in Fine condition. There are no rips or tears. The leather is pliable. There are light handling marks and drag lines.

Our Assessment: This Winchester Model 1200 12 gauge with a 20-inch cylinder bore barrel is a robust and compact shotgun, well-suited for close-range applications such as home defense and law enforcement use. Introduced in 1964, the Model 1200 was designed as a durable, pump-action shotgun that utilizes a rotating bolt and a recoil-operated mechanism, which ensures reliable cycling of shells and a smooth action under various conditions. The 20-inch cylinder bore barrel is particularly effective for quick, close-quarters shooting, as it does not constrict the shot pattern as much as other chokes, allowing for a wider spread. This feature makes it ideal for defensive situations where rapid target acquisition is crucial. Additionally, the shorter barrel length contributes to the shotgun's maneuverability in tight spaces, enhancing its functionality in home defense scenarios. Overall, this Winchester Model 1200 12 GA with a 20" CYL barrel is celebrated for its straightforward design, ease of use, and effective performance in high-stress environments, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a reliable and potent defensive shotgun, which is why the U.S. Army adopted these in 1968 where a few saw action in Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, Somalia, and the invasion of Granada and Panama becoming known as “America’s Last Trench Gun”.