An evolution of John Browning’s pump-action Model 1897, the Winchester Model 12 shotgun was designed by T.C. Johnson and introduced in 1912. Winchester had enough confidence in it to market it as “The Perfect Repeater,” and time would validate that claim. It has an internal hammer design and was the first truly successful pump-action shotgun with that feature. Nearly two million were manufactured over the gun’s 52-year run.

First-year guns were all 20 gauge. In 1913 16- and 12-gauge versions were added, and the latter required a much larger frame size. Although 12-gauge versions are considerably bulkier and heavier, they are outstanding waterfowl guns. Some 20 years later, a 28-gauge version was added, and it’s undoubtedly the rarest Model 12.

Of all the bore sizes, the 16 gauge boasted the best combination of authority paired with easy carry and handling characteristics. Importantly, 16-gauge guns were built on the same frame as the 20-gauge versions rather than the bigger, heavier 12-gauge frame. As a result, they carry like the slender, responsive 20-gauge Model 12s—lively, as a fine upland gun should be—yet hit with authority akin to that of a 12 gauge.

My first proper shotgun was a 12-gauge Model 12, and I still love it. However, unless loaded with a premium malleable, non-toxic shot like Bismuth, it’s no longer helpful for waterfowling. The steel shot in modern waterfowl shotshells will ruin its barrel.

This shotgun was made circa 1955 and is in excellent condition with a few minor handeling marks in the stock, the barrel is a fixed choke marked MOD on the barrel.