Make: Winchester

Model: 24

Serial#: 16174

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1940 (C&R Eligible)

Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2¾” Shells

Action Type: Side-by-Side (SxS), Top-Break, Double-Trigger Shotgun with Extractors

Markings: The receiver is marked “Winchester” and the underside of the receiver and barrels feature the serial number "16174." The buttplate is marked with "Winchester." Standard factory markings are visible on barrels.

Barrel Length: 28”

Chokes: Fixed Chokes (Factory configuration; Left- Improved Modified, Right- Cylinder Bore)

Sights / Optics: Single brass bead mounted at the front of a solid rib.

Stock Configuration & Condition: Walnut pistol-grip stock and forend. There is a small crack in the wrist. The forend profile has been modified slightly, shaped towards a subtle beavertail design near the muzzle end. The wood has been refinished and exhibits minor handling marks and slight imperfections consistent with refinishing and normal use. Overall, stocks are in Very Good condition as refinished.

Type of Finish: Receiver Frame in-the-white (no remaining finish); barrels exhibit some cold-blue touch-up finish.

Finish Originality: Semi-refinished barrels (cold blue); receiver frame finish removed (in-the-white).

Bore Condition: The bores are bright and smooth. There is some stubborn fouling present at the 12 o’clock position in the right barrel. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 9/10 overall.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains minimal original finish on the receiver frame, having been left intentionally in-the-white. The barrels have some cold-blue touch-up applied. The metal surfaces exhibit minor handling marks and faint discoloration consistent with age and refinishing. Screwheads are sharp with minimal tooling. Markings remain clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Good to Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions properly and smoothly. The break-action locks securely with no noticeable play. Extractors function correctly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment:
Introduced in 1939, the Winchester Model 24 was designed as an affordable, durable, and practical side-by-side shotgun for hunters and sportsmen. This example, chambered in the versatile 12 gauge, retains a classic appeal and functionality, despite the modifications and refinishing work performed over the years.

The refinished walnut stocks are solid and attractive, having been modified slightly towards a subtle beavertail forend shape at the muzzle end, enhancing both ergonomics and handling comfort. There is a small crack near the wrist. The receiver, stripped to an "in-the-white" state, provides an interesting visual contrast with the barrels, which have been touched up using cold-blue. The bores remain in bright, smooth condition, showing minimal fouling that should clean up easily.

Mechanically sound and retaining the traditional double-trigger and extractor setup, this Model 24 remains a dependable and functional hunting or recreational shotgun. Collectors may note the refinishing and modifications, but shooters and hunters will appreciate this shotgun’s character, practicality, and enduring reliability.