Make: Winchester

Model: 37 Steelbilt

Serial Number: NVSN

Year of Manufacture: 1936-1963 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 20 Gauge

Action Type: Single shot, break action

Barrel Length: 28"

Choke: Fixed Full

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a metal bead fixed to the barrel.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two piece wood set. It has a semi-pistol grip, checkered hard rubber Winchester buttplate, smooth forend, and a straight comb. There is light wear with pressure dings, a couple nicks, and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the furniture is in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright showing light streaking. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 97% of its metal finish. The finish is strong, showing infrequent scratches and light freckling on the receiver. The screw heads show light tooling and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This single shot shotgun presents in Very Good overall condition, retaining approximately 97% of its original finish. The Steelbilt finish remains deep and even with light handling evidence, and the classic Winchester single shot profile is crisp and well defined. The 28" barrel provides a long, smooth sighting plane, and the Full choke reflects the model's traditional field and clay use orientation.

Mechanically, the shotgun is excellent. The bore rates 9.5 out of 10, bright and clean with very light wear. The break action functions correctly with positive lockup and smooth opening and closing. Overall handling is straightforward and confidence inspiring, consistent with the Model 37's reputation for simplicity and durability.

Historically, the Model 37 was Winchester's long running single shot shotgun, produced for decades as a reliable and affordable sporting arm. Steelbilt examples in this level of condition are increasingly difficult to find, especially in smaller gauges like 20 gauge. With strong original finish, an excellent bore, and correct mechanical function, this Model 37 Steelbilt stands as a highly desirable example of Winchester's classic single shot shotgun production.