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What were the production numbers, total, for the Model 12 Featherweight?
What years were they in production?
How many variations were produced and what were they?

I couldn't estimate the numbers that were produced, but they were only made between 1959 and 1962, so I would guess that there are not too many. They were probably available in the three most popular chokes (full, modified, and improved cylinder). The difference between this model and the standard model 12 is that the featherweight had an alloy trigger gaurd, rather than steel. They were only produced in 12 gauge.

Designed by T.C. Johnson as a hammerless modification of the Model 1897, the Model 1912 (later re dubbed the Model 12) was one of the most successful pump shotguns ever made, with nearly 2 million produced before its cancellation in 1963. Like the Model 1897 it came in take-down form, and likewise was issued in trench gun and combat versions during both World Wars, Korea and Vietnam. The Model 12 was popular with the military, law enforcement, hunters, and sporting clay competitors, the latter regarding it as having superior balance and "point" among pump-actions.

I'm reasonably certain that my Model 12 FWT is not a takedown model; at least by the same design that my M97 and standard 12's are. My oldest 12 is a 1912 made in 1915 and chambered in 2 9/16" 16 ga.; my latest 12 is a 1961 production gun in 16 ga. modified choke with an English style butt stock, IE, straight-no pistol grip. My M12 FWT is definitely different than the standard 12/97 design. That has got me wondering about all the differences. Any information is gratefully acknowledged.

There were approx 123,000 made. They were offered in 12ga. Bbl. lengths available were 26", 28", and 30". You could get a two bbl. set by special order.

if what your saying you have a model 1912 later changed to the model 12

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I'm saying that I have a model 1912 made in 1915 and a model 12 made in 1961 and the FWT Model 12. It was my understanding that the model 1912 was designated as such until shortly after WWI then the 1912 designation was dropped and shortened to "Model 12". My initial questions concerned the FWT, it is not a "takedown" in the same manner as the original '97/12 series. I have a number of questions about the 1912/12 shotguns and was trying to address them by each model individually.
Gunner_D, please go back and read the thread again, you provided some good background but it did not address my questions. Thanks.

The M12 featherweight is a different takedown design than the regular M12.

Yes, I've already stated that. My questions are in my first post and the last one hasn't been touched on yet, but the entire issue has been clouded by a lot of other good information.
Was the FWT ever offered in any of the traditional up scale variations like "pigeon" or" black diamond" or "trap" or "skeet" or any other names and grades???
Were they fitted with ribs, solid or what?
Did they come with "water fowl" sights?

They were not offered in any special grades. Sights were standard. Bbls were not offered with ribs. They basically were only offered as field grade M12s that were lighter than the standard M12. Bbls were as follows:
30" Full
28" full
28" Mod
26" Imp Cyl
.

Thank you very much!! That puts it all in proper perspective.

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So far I do; thanks. I've got a lot of questions as time goes by.

The BBl locked into the receiver with a 1/4 turn on a interlocking thread design same as the model 50, and 59

And again I am not answering your question but to add a small amount of info for you and others, the featherweight has a non steel trigger guard, and the FTW has a knurled knob on the top of the lower tube instead if the "pin" normally associated with the mod 12. thereby making removing the barrel very simple. I have had many 'collectors' at gun shows that didnt know and assumed the barrel had been replaced....

Hi,
I am a new member. I have a Winchester Model 12, Featherweight, 12 gauge, 2 3/4 Cham., Full,
Made in USA 29". Serial number indicates Manufactured in 1960. I can send you pictures via email.
I just had a gunsmith go over the gun and clean and go over all working parts. I was wondering what the value of the shotgun is. Approx. price range would be good to know.
Truthfully I will never use the shotgun and it will stay in my closet (in a stocking).