Any Model 21 Experts?

[TxHuntermn]

A guy I know on another site just told me that the forend latch on this gun was only used for the first year, and part of the second year of production because shooters complained that under recoil, the little knurled rocker knob could be operated and cause the forend to detach.

I have never been much interested in 21's because they look a little clunky to me personally, and they seem really expensive generally, so I don't know if I will keep this gun or not. I bought it VERY right. Now if it had been a 16 or a 20, there might be a different story!

[Randy Roberts]

Originally Posted by Mark Ray

A guy I know on another site just told me that the forend latch on this gun was only used for the first year, and part of the second year of production because shooters complained that under recoil, the little knurled rocker knob could be operated and cause the forend to detach.

I have never been much interested in 21's because they look a little clunky to me personally, and they seem really expensive generally, so I don't know if I will keep this gun or not. I bought it VERY right. Now if it had been a 16 or a 20, there might be a different story!

I believe that to be correct. Actually I think that style of latch is really cool and I have never had an issue with them. I have owned 2 of them over the years I think. Never shot either one of those a lot though.

[StubTwist]

I believe this is a pre-1933 Model 21 since the barrel markings are on the top of the barrels "Model 21 Winchester -12 gauge" and the other barrel with the patent dates. Around 1933 the barrel stamps were moved to the side of the barrel.

I have a similar gun three digit serial number. I love mine. Patterns wonderfully. And no.... it is not bulky either. It is my go to gun when I want to beat the NH boys in sporting clays. M21 double trigger / splinter forend have a cult like following.

[classicioi]

Mark,

My meat gun is a 1936 Mdl 21 20 Ga weighing 6lb 1oz from the factory. It has 26" barrels with factory Imp Cyl & Imp Mod chokes, DT, Splinter and ejectors. I haven't had the first problem with it so far.

I do agree with Reggie that the majority of 21's I've handled especially in a 20 ga have been a tad heavier than I want to carry at 6 3/4 - 7 lbs.

I hope you enjoy shooting some rounds thru your new 21.

Regards, Karl