Designed by T.C. Johnson, The Model 12 Slide Action Shotgun is the first as well as most popular hammerless slide-action shotgun made by Winchester.
The model was available in 12, 16, 20 and 28 gauge; and in the following grades: Field, Fancy, Skeet, Trap, Pigeon, Tournament, Featherweight, Heavy Duck Gun, Riot Gun and Trench Gun.
The Heavy Duck Gun was introduced in 1935 and was chambered for the 3” magnum 12 gauge only. All model 12s of this era had Nickel Steel barrels, except the ones with Stainless Steel barrels. 30” and 32” barrels were offered until around 1948 when the 32” barrels were discontinued. These 3” magnums were also offered as Trap guns and Pigeon Grade guns. Special features may include barrels with solid rib, or ventilated rib. Special features include fancy stocks, checkering, carving, and engraving.
![Model 12 winchester manufacture dates Model 12 winchester manufacture dates](/uploads/1/2/6/0/126096249/358664871.jpg)
The Winchester 101 model is a shotgun that began manufacture in 1959. The gun originally was issued as a 12 gauge in 1959. Serial numbers for this model range from 50,000 to more than 140,500.
With about 2 million Model 12s produced in both standard and deluxe grades between 1912 and 1980, the Model 12 had milestone serial numbers set aside for presentation to notable individuals.
There is only factory Serial Number Application Data available for this model from the Cody Firearms Museum in Cody, Wyoming, from serial number 1 thru 1970885.
Winchester Model 12 Manufacture Dates
- The Winchester Model 1912 is an internal-hammer, pump-action, shotgun with an external tube. The Model 12 was designed by Winchester engineer T.C. Johnson, and was based in part on the M1893/97 design by John M. Browning, in that.
- The pre-64 Model 12 Winchester was designed in 1912, with actual production from 1914 through 1963. During that 51-year period, there were over 1,900,000 guns sold. Production, clean-up and special orders of the Model 12 continued until serial number 2,027,500 in 1980.