Model 12 28-gauges were made to fill a niche for Skeet shooters. Model 12 28-gauges in anything other than a Skeet Gun are very rare. The Model 12 28-gauge Pigeon Grade Skeet Gun linked is listed as a 1952 gun, but Winchester didn't begin cataloging the Winchester Special Ventilated Rib for smallbore Model 12s until 1954 --





Until then the 16-, 20- and 28-gauge Model 12s were only offered with plain or solid rib barrels.