Help me date a Winchester model 21.

[Dave T]

I was given this model 21 over 25 years ago by a mentor. It has been in storage inasmuch as I am not a big gun person (no offense, just not my cup of tea). Recently I took it out of storage and realized what a beautiful thing it is. It's used, not perfect, but has lovely figured wood and looks good. I've told several of my friends about it and they have been pestering me for details of it, including the date of manufacture. They have also made me some what I consider good offers. Can any of you help me with the date of manufacture using the serial number of 18188? Many thanks in advance.

[lcm]

Dave,
check out --
http://bluepike.tripod.com/Model21/tables/...rialNumDate.htm (http://bluepike.tripod.com/Model21/tables/serialNumDate.htm)

Your model 21 looks to be around 1947 and with what little research I did looks to be a keeper. I would call Winchester 800-333-3288 or 800-876-2711 to verify. Their web site is http://www.winchester-guns.com/
Good luck, hopes this helps.

[Dave T]

Thanks for the links to the websites. It never occurred to me to do a search.

I probably won't keep the gun, I have no use for it, other than the memory of the gentleman that gave it to me. It's really quite nice and should go to someone that can use/ appreciate it more than I.

[Oldjad01]

Do a lot of research on price before you let it go. Those 21's are great guns and good examples bring top bucks. I am not sure of the current market, but a few years back a nice field grade gun was in the $2000-2500 and Customs, Pidgeons and Grand Americans were in the $5000-10,000 range and above. Jim