What are a safe brand/type of slugs to use in my 1945 Winchester Model 12 16 guage shotgun?

Question

I want to get some slugs, but I am not sure of a safe brand. It's an old gun so I don't want anything mondo or magnum. What is something that won't break my gun? Thanks! What are your ideas for shells?

Answer 1

The Winchester Model 12 was Winchesters first pump action shotgun to be marketed to the public. They were sold in 2 3/4" and 3" magnum versions. Like most modern shotguns they were sold to the public in various barrel styles and "chokes". They even produced a Riot and Trench Barrel just for use with Slugs and #00 Buckshot........ Rifled Slugs should only be fired from modified choke barrels or ""Slug" barrels manufactured to shoot them. As long as you have one of the above, shooting slugs will work fine in your Model 12. They only drawback that I can see would be the availability of 16 gauge rifled slugs. NOTE* Most Slugs and Sabot Slugs are loaded pretty hot in both the 2 3/4 and 3" .They are still being manufactured by a few companies, but not available everywhere. Depends on what area you live.

Answer 2

Answer 2 questions and you have the answer yourself.

- Is the shotgun a 2 3/4 or 3 inch version? If you dont know or cant find out then definitely stick with 2 3/4 inch shells.

- Does the barrel have any modification or Choke that has been done? If so, then it is likely that a slug could damage the barrel.

If you can't answer these questions I would steer away from using slugs in this gun.

Otherwise any 2 3/4 inch slug (I use Sabot) will work fine.

Answer 3

1945 isn't an "old" M12. It's probably chambered for 2 3/4" shells, and it's probably best to double-check that. It also may be full-choked, in which case you're better off sticking to shot.

Answer 4

You need Remington Brand called Slugger, 2 and three quarter inch, Hollow point Slugs*.... There are 5 in a box*.....