j.c. higgins model 20 12 gauge pump shotgun manual
J․C․ Higgins Model 20 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun⁚ An Overview
The J․C․ Higgins Model 20, a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, was manufactured by High Standard․ Popular in the mid-20th century, it’s known for its sturdy construction and reliable performance․ Many examples feature the Power-Pac choke system․ Original manuals are sought after by collectors․
Manufacturer and Production History
The J․C․ Higgins Model 20 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, a popular firearm from the mid-20th century, wasn’t manufactured by Sears, Roebuck and Co․ Instead, production was outsourced to the High Standard Manufacturing Company․ This collaboration resulted in a reliable and well-regarded shotgun sold through Sears’ extensive retail network under their J․C․ Higgins brand․ Production spanned several years, beginning in the 1940s and continuing into the early 1960s, coinciding with the peak popularity of the brand․ The Model 20’s success contributed significantly to the overall reputation of both High Standard and the J․C․ Higgins line of firearms․ Its design and robust build quality ensured its place as a dependable and sought-after shotgun among collectors and enthusiasts even today․ The end of production marked a shift in Sears’ sporting goods strategy, leading to the discontinuation of the J․C․ Higgins brand and its replacement by the Ted Williams line․
Notable Features and Specifications
The J․C․ Higgins Model 20, a product of High Standard, boasted several noteworthy features․ Common specifications included a 12-gauge chambering, typically with a 2 3/4-inch shell capacity․ Barrel lengths varied, but a 27․25-inch barrel with a ventilated rib was frequently seen․ Many models incorporated a Power-Pac choke system, although variations existed with screw-in or fixed chokes depending on the year of manufacture․ The receiver was typically milled, contributing to the shotgun’s robust construction․ A blued finish was standard, protecting the metal components․ Walnut stocks were common, providing a classic aesthetic and comfortable feel․ The length of pull was usually around 14 inches․ These specifications, combined with the overall quality of construction, resulted in a firearm highly regarded for its reliability and performance, making the Model 20 a desirable shotgun for both practical use and collecting․
Variations and Differences from other Models (e․g․, 20 gauge)
While the J․C․ Higgins Model 20 was primarily produced in 12 gauge, variations existed in 16 and 20 gauge․ Reports suggest significant design differences between the 12-gauge and the smaller gauges, particularly the 20-gauge․ These differences often involved manufacturing techniques and component designs, with some accounts indicating a shift towards more cost-effective stamped parts in the smaller-gauge versions․ This resulted in a perceived reduction in overall quality and sturdiness compared to the 12-gauge models․ The 20-gauge versions might exhibit variations in the choke system, with less frequent use of the Power-Pac system․ The differences highlight the evolution of manufacturing processes and cost-cutting measures over the production run of the Model 20, resulting in variations across the different gauge offerings․ These distinctions are important to note when researching or restoring a specific Model 20 shotgun․
Finding Information and Resources
Locating original J․C․ Higgins Model 20 manuals can prove challenging․ Online forums and communities dedicated to firearms offer valuable resources and assistance․ Information on value and collectibility is readily available online․
Availability of Original Manuals
Original J․C․ Higgins Model 20 manuals are highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts, making them relatively scarce․ Many were likely discarded over time, contributing to their limited availability today․ Finding an original, pristine manual is a challenge, though reproductions may exist․ Online marketplaces, auction sites, and dedicated gun forums occasionally list original manuals for sale․ These often command a premium price due to their rarity and collector appeal․ Be wary of potentially inaccurate or misleading information; verify the authenticity of any manual before purchasing․ Several online sellers offer reprints or reproductions, often digitally enhanced for clarity and readability, providing an alternative for those unable to secure an original․
Online Forums and Communities
Engaging with online forums and communities dedicated to firearms, vintage firearms, or Sears/J․C․ Higgins products can be invaluable when seeking information on the Model 20․ These platforms often host knowledgeable individuals who can provide insights into the shotgun’s history, operation, and maintenance․ Users frequently share experiences, tips, and resources, including links to manuals or parts suppliers․ Forums can be a great place to ask specific questions about your Model 20, such as identifying variations, troubleshooting malfunctions, or sourcing parts․ Remember to always be respectful and follow community guidelines when interacting; The collective knowledge within these communities can be a significant asset to any owner of a J․C․ Higgins Model 20 shotgun, offering support and guidance that goes beyond what a manual alone can provide․
Value and Collectibility
The J․C․ Higgins Model 20’s value as a collectible item is influenced by several factors․ Condition is paramount; a well-preserved shotgun with original finish and minimal wear commands a higher price than a heavily used or damaged one․ Rarity of specific variations or features can also impact value․ The presence of original accessories, such as the manual itself, adds to a collector’s desirability and value․ Online auction sites and gun forums provide insights into recent sales prices, offering a benchmark for assessing value․ However, the market fluctuates, and condition, rarity, and overall demand play a crucial role․ Remember that a gun’s value is subjective, influenced by both the collector market and the current condition of the specific item․ Therefore, professional appraisals may be necessary for accurate valuation, especially for exceptional examples․
Maintenance and Repair
Proper cleaning and lubrication are crucial for maintaining your J․C․ Higgins Model 20․ Regular inspection for wear and tear is also recommended․ Sourcing replacement parts may require research due to the age of the firearm․ Consult a qualified gunsmith for major repairs․
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Common problems with the J․C․ Higgins Model 20 often relate to its age and the availability of parts․ The action may become sluggish due to wear or dirt accumulation․ Thorough cleaning and lubrication, as detailed in the manual if available, are critical․ Examine the barrel for obstructions; a bore brush and solvent are necessary for cleaning․ Check the functioning of the ejector and extractor mechanisms․ If the shotgun malfunctions, disassemble only if you are experienced; otherwise, consult a qualified gunsmith․ Remember safety first⁚ always ensure the firearm is unloaded before any cleaning or maintenance․
Parts Availability and Sourcing
Finding replacement parts for a vintage J․C․ Higgins Model 20 can be challenging․ Due to the age of the firearm and the fact that Sears no longer produces these shotguns, original parts are scarce․ Online auction sites like eBay and GunBroker․com may offer some used parts, but availability varies greatly․ Specialized gun parts dealers specializing in vintage firearms might also have some components․ Gunsmiths with experience in restoring older shotguns may be able to source parts or fabricate replacements․ Consider joining online forums dedicated to vintage firearms or the J․C․ Higgins brand; fellow enthusiasts might offer advice or parts․ Remember to always verify part compatibility before purchasing․
Cleaning and Storage
Proper cleaning and storage are crucial for preserving your J․C․ Higgins Model 20․ After each use, thoroughly clean the barrel using a bore brush and solvent, followed by a patch to remove residue․ Clean the action and receiver with a gun cleaning cloth, paying attention to any moving parts․ Lubricate moving parts with a high-quality gun oil․ For long-term storage, ensure the firearm is completely clean and dry․ Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture․ Use a gun case or soft gun sock to protect the finish․ If storing unloaded, keep the action open to prevent accidental discharge․ Regularly inspect the shotgun for any signs of rust or damage, addressing any issues promptly․ Following these steps will help maintain the condition and longevity of your firearm․