Fun with a Win Model 12

[ZardozCZ]

I recently picked up a 1934 vintage Winchester Model 12, 12ga. It's mechanically sound, the butt stock is an Italian replacement and the barrel is scored inside about 3" from the muzzle, looks like someone took a brake cylinder hone to it. Ouch! Oh well, it's destined to be cut to 19" (anyone remember for sure what the legal minimum is?) for take-down compactness. I love how it splits in two so nicely. I got it to the range today and pumped some shells through it. Oh My, it's been 40 years since I've fired a shotgun and it was FUN!!! Some #4 and 00 shot pounded the cardboard target right where aimed. I love this thing! Zombies better watch out!

[OldmanFCSA]

Minimum barrel length is 18" = cut it 18.5" from base of shell and deburr properly.
Minimum Overal Length is 26.75" = make it 27.5" to be safe.
No bayonet lugs.

[westhope]

You know on an old Win Model 12, if you hold the trigger and pump the action, it will fire as soon as it locks-up. My father's and grandfather's old model 12's both do.

[Nokomis]

Once you cut it down could you post some pics? I'm contemplating doing the same with one of my Model 12s but I'm reluctant to do so because it's so old. Then again someone before me already cut an inch and a half off of the stock, so it's hacked up anyway.

You really can't beat Model 12s. They're the first thing I look for in used gun racks.