doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Winchester Model 12 reblue

So, want to have my 20 Gauge M12 reblued, based on my research I have 3 options: Simmons, Boses or Wrights.

Any info, opinion, experiences on which to use and why will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

A gunsmith buddy of mine sent his very tired 20ga Mod 12 to Simmons for the full re-do, including fitting a vent rib, fresh wood and complete reblue. He is very happy with the work. I saw it briefly and it looked good to me, way better than the 1912 I had done locally by a guy who came highly recommended.

Another option might be Midwest Gun Works.

Simmons does very good work but I recommend that you not go with the high polish. In my opinion the high polish on a vintage Winchester makes it look as if the previous owner was a pimp or a gangsta.

The Simmons polish on my friend's gun looked appropriate for the gun, compared to another original M12 20ga that I own. I also have another that was reblued before I got it, and it does look pimpish. MGW offers a "factory correct" refinish for Superposeds, and I think they offer the same service for M12s (not absolutely sure, though). The biggest problem with the polishing seems to be keeping surfaces flat and edges crisp, and not getting carried away on the matting along the top of the frame.

Thanks for the responses, it's a field grade gun that I'll be carrying for Grouse and Woodcock, I just want a reblue to keep it protected and definitely want it to look original and not "pimpish." I'll be calling Simmons and Midwest tomorrow.

I polished my first year model 12 and sent the gun to Glen Rock blue. My polish was not especially high (maybe to 320 grit) and there were pits left in the receiver instead of being worked out. They hot blued the gun, and it is very presentable. I was simply interested in my hands not getting rusty when I used it-it had been a barn gun since the late 1940s when I got it.
They did a great job, and the cost was reasonable.

Best,
Ted

There's something particularly pleasurable from what you've done, Ted. Sometimes a better feeling than acquiring another gun.

I'm not a big re-blue guy, but, I got the gun for nothing, and put it back into service. It works correctly, and I'd prefer one using gun to a dozen new in the box treasures hanging around anyway.

Best,
Ted

It's been over 30 years, but I sent an early M12 20 to Simmons for a complete re-do, including VR, and it came back fresh as a daisy. Good to hear that they continue to do good work.

Might throw Nu-Way gun works into the mix. I had mine done out there (I think its in Kansas or Mo.) and was impressed with the work...Geo