Winchester 25 Questions and Opinions

[wm]

I just saw a Winchester model 25 shotgun for sale at local shop and I took a bit of shine to because of its condition (minty) and price ($175).

But I confess shotguns have not been my passion. Utility is the beginning and end of my interest …… and as a result my experience is almost exclusively limited to a couple of High Standards that came and went, & Mossberg 500s and Remington 870s, and a couple of SXS guns which have served me well.


As I understand it the Winchester 25 is based on the model 12. What is the difference? What are the strengths and weaknesses associated with the 25? The one I am looking at is a 12 gauge and it will be used simply as a hunting (birds) firearm.


Any experienced shared will be appreciated.


Wm

[GunnyMack]

I've seen and shot a LOT of shotguns...never a 25. For that kind of money in near mint shape what's to loose?

[gamekeeper]

I've seen and shot a LOT of shotguns...never a 25. For that kind of money in near mint shape what's to loose?

+ 1, sounds like a steal, wasn't the 25 just a non takedown model12?

[AJMD429]

I'd probably have bought it first, then checked it out later....

....but that's why I have more guns than money....

[Pete44ru]

I've seen and shot a LOT of shotguns...never a 25. For that kind of money in near mint shape what's to loose?

+ 1, sounds like a steal, wasn't the 25 just a non takedown model12?

The Model 25 was a solid-frame Model 12 (made from 1949-54), which in turn was one of the greatest classic repeating shotguns.

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[.45colt]

From what I have read , during the 1950's sales of the Model 12 were down probably due to the popularity of the Remington 870 the Model 25 was an attempt by Winchester to hold cost down. The Model 25 for $175.00 in mint condition is a steal. Glad I didn't see it, I don't need another shotgun right now. .

[elmo123]

I had one years ago and it shot nice but was heavy compared to the 870's that I had been using for many years. From what I remember there were not that many of them made because they didn't sell that well just like the Model 12 Featherweights of which I also owned a couple.

[M. M. Wright]

Yeah, just a non-takedown model 12. I was raised with one in 16 gauge (my Dad's). Still have it and Father in laws, a 16 also. I have a couple more model 12s in 12 and in my opinion they are one of the great bargains available in todays gun market. Go buy that 25. You won't regret it.
By the way, a model 12,12 that holds 6 in the magazine, hangs next to my side of the bed. Just in case.