Make: Winchester

Model: 12

Serial Number: 1510966

Year of Manufacture: 1955

Caliber: 12 Gauge (2 3/4” Chamber)

Action Type: Pump Action Shotgun with Tubular Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER MODEL 12 - 12 GA. - 2 3/4 CHAM. - MOD”. The underside of the receiver and barrel extension are marked with serial number “1510966”. Winchester proof marks are on the barrel and receiver. All markings are crisp and clear.

Barrel Length: 28”

Choke: Modified (Fixed)

Sights / Optics: Single silver bead at the muzzle.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with a ribbed forend and pistol-grip buttstock. The wood displays honest wear, including scattered minor handling marks and scratches consistent with normal field use. No major cracks or significant damage are observed. The buttstock ends with a Winchester-marked hard rubber buttplate. Length of pull (LOP) is 14”.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and clean, with no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 85% of its original blued finish. Finish loss is evident along the leading edges, with actionable areas worn to white from normal use. The balance of surfaces exhibits honest wear, including one notable 1” scratch atop the barrel. This finish loss is typical of field use and handling, reflecting genuine age and character.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The pump cycles smoothly and locks up tight. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Winchester’s Model 12 is one of the most respected and celebrated pump-action shotguns ever manufactured. Introduced in 1912, it became widely renowned for its reliability, smoothness, and rugged construction. Highly favored among hunters, sportsmen, and collectors alike, the Model 12 earned its reputation as a shotgun that performs flawlessly under all conditions.

This particular Model 12, manufactured in 1955, retains approximately 85% of its original finish and exhibits honest field use, providing genuine character. Its 28” Modified-choked barrel is versatile for hunting upland game and clay target shooting alike. With a clean bore rating of 9/10 and smooth mechanics, it remains a practical and appealing firearm for collectors and shooters alike.

This Winchester Model 12 shotgun is an ideal choice for any enthusiast seeking a dependable, historically significant pump shotgun with genuine patina and character earned from real-world use.