Winchester model 12 32"

lawsonz

I have the chance to purchase a model 12 12gauge made in 1914 with a 32" barrel. I was wondering if the 32" barrel is a rarity and also does the early manufacture date, which I think is the first year for a 12 guage, make it any more desirable or worth more?

Winchester 1912

Good evening. The 32 inch barrel is somewhat of a rarity as it was a special order feature on the model 12. Being first year production for 12 gauges is an added point of interest although it probably won't raise the value very much. It's pretty much all about the condition of the firearm. Good luck on your purchase.
-Mitch

lawsonz

Would the 32" barrel raise the value of the gun any?

perry shooter

Yes how much it depends on condition if well worn and just a shooter maybe 10% but if it was mint in the box with hang tag and papers then IMHO 25% . YMMV

duckhunter

Can you post a pic? Condition is most important on these old guns.

lawsonz

Don't have a pic as I haven't purchased the gun yet. The gun is in good working order, wood is in good shape, blueing is pretty much gone.

duckhunter

Have you checked the time??

lawsonz

What do you mean?

Bert H.

I disagree that a 32-inch barrel was a "special" order feature. Instead, it was listed as an "optional" no cost feature, and one that is not all that rare. I have encountered many dozens of the pre-war Model 1912/12 12 gauge guns with 32-inch barrels. What is rare, is to find one with a solid rib.

A 32-inch barrel on a well worn gun adds precious little to the collector value, and 1914 is not a "first" year gun. Unless the serial number is 3-digits (or less), there will be no premium.

Bert H.

quote:Originally posted by lawsonz
What do you mean?


What duckhunter is asking, is does the gun lock-up, fire, and release the slide properly.