[caddy2507]

I have a very nice and original Model 12 that I bought over 20 years ago. That example, as others have mentioned has been "put together". The markings, stock cartouches, and variations of the parts (finish)
show that. You were right to pass on it.

 

[quicksilvergoat]

It is a model 12, yes the numbers match.

View attachment 899235

Man, I fee like a dope, I just got new glasses yesterday to boot. It definitely is an M12


After browsing through Poyer’s book I’m with those that believe it’s likely a converted riot gun. As you identified the magazine plug is incorrect for a trench gun but correct for a riot gun.

The marking’s don’t bother me so much. I’ve seen more than one mis struck stamp on military guns over the years.

 

[Berkeley492]

Well, if $$$'s is no object in obtaining one of these:

Rare, Excellent Winchester Model 12 Trench Shotgun

3/27/24 - This is a rare, excellent Winchester Model 12 Trench shotgun from 1943-44. It's in the proper serial range, with martially marked receiver and GHD inspector's mark on stock above the crossed cannons cartouche. Excellent original bluing, with minor high edge wear. Strong, shiny bore...

www.legacy-collectibles.com

Randy

 

[Olle]

The gun is in excellent condition, the bayonet lug and heat shield are well worn and even rusty. I'm definitely not an expert on trench guns, but the difference in condition is enough to tell me that it's put together.

 

[kimchek]

to me the gun looks buffed including the stock,, tread lightly my friend

 

[Mikebiker]

It looks like a screw in swivel on the stock and not the inletted 1903 sling swivel. WRONG

 

[kenhwind]

COMBAT SHOTGUNS by Bruce N. Canfield, World War II, Winchester Model 12 Trench Guns; Pages 127-29
This Model 12 serial number falls below any "The lowest reported WWII Model 12 serial number is 939,650...not been confirmed...trench gun, riot gun or training gun."

I could quote some more from Canfield, but I think it has been sufficiently determined that this Model 12 Trench gun is not what it is being presented to be.

Anyone considering pursuing one of these USGi shotguns should invest in Canfield's book. These guns are out of my price range but I bought the book anyway.

 

[kenhwind]

Does the serial #’s match on the barrel and the barrel extension?

I don’t have my book in front of me and I don’t want to pass judgement completely but it doesn’t look right to me. I’m pretty sure the barrel on the 1897’s should extent past the heat shield about an inch. When I get home this evening I’ll pull my book out.

The photo in Canfield's book shows the Model 97 barrel does extend past the bayonet adapter/heatshield, whereas the Model 12 does not.

 

[GRI]

Note that the ‘97 during WWII was made with takedown frames when Winchester ran out of standard frames. However, the guns did not takedown. This has likely led to some confusion.

 

[kenhwind]

Winchester Shotguns and Shotshells; by Ronald W. Stadt, Chapter 4 Models 1893 and 1897/97, page 53:
"In 1935 the solid frame was discontinued and the takedown trench gun was added."
"...with the bayonet stud attached, the takedown feature serves no purpose."

I'll look in my TM but I'm reasonably sure that once the bayonet adapter and magazine tube are removed that the barrel and receiver separate as would the takedown but being a true "takedown" not so much.