Sweet Frank. There really is'nt a better pointing gun than the M12. I've got a 1940 solid rib 2 barrel set that I take out every now and then just to keep her happy. The problem is I can't shoot my favorite light loads in her as the recoil is'nt sufficient enough to unlock the bolt. I've got to remember to push the forearm forward.

It would kind of neat to shoot a round with the old M12's either at Ernie's or Mike's in the fall.

I have a M-12 that a perfect candidate for engraving just need to replace the butt stock with some new fancy wood.The M-12 is the best pump shotgun ever made. J.J.

I love the M-12, and have done some good work with one. That said, if you want to raise the cool factor a notch or two, take a M-97 with a Damascus barrel out on the clay course.

For my money, the Remmie M31 is the best pump, followed by the Ithaca M37

Really nice shooting Frank. I wasn't there but I know there was a lot of DIESEL SMOKE with a Winchester choked FULL shot with today's modern ammunition. My Winchester Black Diamond '97 Trap is printing 80% or better at 40 yards with the same .035 choke you have. The Winchesters I have patterned on paper pattern beautifully.

I really like the straight grip to your M12.

Thanks everyone. Yes Frank, "diesel smoke" was heard more than once yesterday. It's just my opinion but shooting sporting clays with a tight choke makes you a better hunting shot with any choke. You hit or miss, and if you miss you'd better figure out why. It's not about fringe hitting the clays with open chokes or spreaders and smiling with that X on the score card. Again this is JMO. Daryl, I'd like to shoot a round with you, Frank and other vintage pump gun guys either at Hidden Hollow at the end of the month or at Rock Mtn in September, or both. Maybe we can get some others to join in?

Best repeating shotgun ever made ..... my vote goes for the Model 12; and those with a sighting rib whether solid or vented are way cool pointing and shooting guns. JME.

frank

Sounds like a fun side event Frank. I'll drag my M12 up to Ernie's next week and welcome anyone else to join in with Frank and I with your favorite vintage pump.

At one time I had the M12 bug in a big way but they have all gone to other homes. My favorite was a M12 20ga skeet gun. I did just buy a "new" M42 solid rib skeet gun but as it's never been fired I'll find someone who wants it more than I do. I have always like the M12 but the M42's are just as nice.

I love my Model 12,s. But I find the 42,s a bit light in the front end

Frank, Daryl - I'm in. I'll be bringing a really special 20 gauge with 32" barrel.

I won't go into the M12 vs M31 debate. I own both -- like both - and each can hold their own.

But I will say the Remington Model 17 pump gun built specifically for only the 20 gauge shell is one heck of a gun. The one I have weighs a lively 6.0 lbs on the nose with a 30" barrel that carries, points, swings like a pool cue and delivers death whatever you point at.