When did "Pistol Grips" become common on American shotguns as the standard? It seems that prior to 1900, the straight grip was the standard on American shotguns and rifles. The Winchester Model 94 and Springfield 1903 were still straight-gripped in the early 1900's, as were most SxS shotguns of that era.

What caused the change to pistol grip style, and when? What American gun company led this change?

gold40