Model 12 Bolt Stuck Closed

[russ45]

I have this old Winchester Model 12 shotgun that I use for some shooting games and it has been remarkably smooth and reliable, until today. After chambering and firing a round, the bolt stuck closed. This happened a few times and I was able to depress the bolt release button and eject with some force. Upon fiddling with it and dry firing some, I have totally locked it up. Bolt is stuck closed, hammer down, firing pin through the breech face, and bolt release button stuck in. Any words of wisdom? I own newer guns but none are as cool as this old Model 12 (when it runs).

 

[Black Knight]

I am not familiar with the Winchester model 12 but you may want to remove the trigger group (if possible). My thinking is that something in the trigger group has broken and is blocking the bolt or not unlocking the bolt. If this sounds undoable take it to a competant gunsmith who is familiar with the design.

 

[russ45]

OK Close this thread. I read on shotgun blog about the bolt release on the bolt. I found that and it worked. I guess the only problem I had was a bunch of crud under the bolt release lever that was keeping it from being pressed all the way in. A good cleaning might be what I need.