Just curious, as I own an original 1939 Model 12 field grade - in 28 gauge. I acquired it from the son of the first owner, he even had the paperwork and bill of sale tucked into the canvas break-down case, plus the original hanging tag.
It is my understanding that WRA offered the 28 gauge in the M12's from about 1937 to 1955 (with appropriated production loss from 1941 to 1945, due to wartime)--
But I have heard of 'counterfeits" made on M12 20 gauge guns, re-barreled to the smaller bore. The only sure ways I know of to determine a "genuine" 28 gauge M12 from a "counterfeit" are: (1) check the sn. against the records for sns. from 1937 to 1955 (Ned Schwing pocket book is what I use) and (2) Remove the buttstock and check the rear of the receiver boss- the original gauge of the M12 when it left the factory will be stamped there--
But I am sure there are other "reliable ways" to verify an original from a counterfeit-- RWTF
Last edited by Run With The Fox; 02/26/19 02:00 PM.
