Winchester model m-59 12ga fiberglass barrel

[Telumehtar]

My grandfather recently handed down to me a Winchester model m-59 12ga with fiberglass barrel that is lined with steel. I'm seeing conflicting advice/opinions about whether to even use this gun on up to using it with non-steel shot. I'd love to hear from someone who owns and has possibly used one of these guns and what sort of issues if any they've had.

 

[Laphroaig]

I inherited my Dad's M59, circa 1963 or so. He fired every kind of 2 3/4 12 ga load through it in a 40+ year hunting career with it. That includes many mag turkey loads and a box or 2 of steel. Once he fired a 3" mag by mistake.

I've never shot it, but plan to give to one of my sons. Both he and my dad are lefties so the safety will be good to go for him. I have no plans to retire it.

Laphroaig

 

[RMc]

The May 1960 issue of Guns Magazine ran a well written article on the then new Winchester 59. The article can be read at:

http://www.gunsmagazine.com/1960issues/G0560.pdf