I recently aquired my grandfather's 12 gauge shotgun. It is a J C Higgins bolt action. I've been researching the gun and have found that Sears put out a recall a few years back because of an issue with the bolt hitting people in the face!

I was wondering if anyone out there knows exactly what was the cause of the failure and if it was happening while firing or while cycling the gun. The bolt is held in place by a set screw. I could see if that screw works its way out a bit someone who has the gun shouldered could smack themselves in the chops with the bolt.

My gun is in excellant shape for its age. I've been told the gun hasn't fired more than one box of shells in its lifetime. After cleaning, I have put lock-tite on the set screw and the take-down screw.

I'm dying to shoot this gun, but also value my face. Thanks for any insight.

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Have owned several bolt shotguns, never had a problem with them but I didn't shoot a ton of rounds either.

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That's cool. Heard anything regarding this recall?

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nope Contact them.

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"I have no issues with people of all types being here, I do have a problem with the more extreme ends of any spectrum trying to dominate and push out moderates and opposites." Bill Plein

Apparently it was because the set screw kept coming loosed and some moron pulled the bolt all the way out and hit himself square in the face breaking his jaw or something. This caused a lawsuit and hence a recall. This is a problem on all the JC higgins from certain serial numbers.

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Thanks Bob

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I have the same shotgun, I first fired it when I was 17, and it was passed around, father, 1st cuz, and I. Afew years back, I had the bolt and firing pin checked out and pass with colors, I now have it collecting dust. As well as a 410 Single shot( the barrel turnes to the left). Put together with rollpins. I plain to tie them both to a tree and test fire them, befor I do. The 12 gage only has 12 gage proof tested and 2 3/4 chamber on it. The 410 has Firearms International Corp, Washington DC, 20022 on it.