Gun Dog Forum

I just received a free JC Higgins 16ga bolt action shotgun with fixed modified choke. Model number 583.21 I believe mfrd in 1952. I read there was a recall on the 12 ga version (only the 12 ga). Was wondering if anyone here is familiar with it and if there are any who still use today whether for deer or birds. Besides being old it looks to be in good condition and the original owner tells me they shot hundreds and hundreds of shells thru it without issue however they have not fired it in 30yrs since.

Could you post a picture? I do not think I have ever seen a bolt action shotgun before. I am not much of a hunter or a trap shooter, so I do not have a vast knowledge of shotguns.

Corry

Ive got one, I'm pretty sure the same model and everything that you described. I read the same recall on the 12ga. I got worried and called my gunsmith and they said they haven't heard anything on the 16. It has been a while since I shot mine. I've moved to shooting a lot of 20ga with my O/U. It was a good gun when I used it and still shoots straight.

Ghosted it is truly one of the ugliest guns I have ever laid eyes on however being that it was free it has great appeal. You can google image it and see for yourself. After having done some research this one will be a wall hanger. I might try to return the bolt for the recall if they are accepting the 16ga bolts and take their $50 since I have no desire to blow the bolt thru my eye socket and into the back of my skull which sounds painful.

Hmm, not what I was expecting....Then again I am not sure what I was expecting lol. As far as the bolt going through the back of the skull being painful, you probably wouldnt feel it
All joking aside, that is something that I would keep as a nice vintage piece anyways. I personally like 16ga and have a new over under.

Corry