Description
The Winchester 101 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, High Grade Walnut, Blue Finish is a classic over-and-under shotgun built for reliability and performance. It’s a field-proven design offering a 28-inch barrel for smooth swings, a 3-inch chamber for versatile shell options, and is presented with high-grade walnut and a durable blue finish. This is a serious shotgun for the shooter who demands a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality. When it comes to breaking clays or a long day in the field, this is a tool that performs without fuss.
Key Features
- Proven Over-and-Under Action: A robust, time-tested design known for its strength and reliability under repeated use.
- 28-Inch Vent Rib Barrel: Provides excellent sighting plane and swing dynamics for consistent target acquisition.
- 3-Inch Chamber: Handles a wide range of 12-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier waterfowl and turkey shells.
- High-Grade Walnut Stock: Offers a classic look and a solid, comfortable grip that ages beautifully.
- Durable Blue Finish: Protects the steel components from the elements while maintaining a traditional aesthetic.
- Single Selective Trigger: Allows for quick, intuitive barrel selection without fumbling.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Stock | High-Grade Walnut |
| Finish | Blue |
| Action | Over-and-Under |
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a disposable piece of gear. The Winchester 101 is built to last, with a solid feel and precise machining that speaks to its heritage. The 28-inch barrel length is a versatile choice, providing enough weight forward for a smooth follow-through on clays while remaining manageable for carrying in the uplands. With a price point of $1496.19, it represents a significant investment in a firearm that will serve for decades. The walnut stock isn’t just for show; it provides a stable platform and absorbs recoil effectively, which you’ll appreciate after a hundred rounds on the sporting clays course.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This shotgun is for the dedicated wingshooter, the serious clay target enthusiast, or the hunter who values a single, reliable tool for multiple seasons. It’s for the shooter who has moved past entry-level autoloaders and wants the instant barrel selection and pointability of an over-and-under without stepping into the custom gun price bracket. If your season involves doves, ducks, pheasants, and weekend trap leagues, this is your workhorse. It’s also compatible with a wide range of standard choke tubes, like those from Briley or Carlson’s, allowing you to fine-tune your pattern for any task.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The classic over-and-under design is inherently simple and reliable. The 3-inch chamber offers maximum load versatility. The high-grade walnut and blue finish provide durability and a timeless look that synthetic stocks can’t match. The single selective trigger and automatic safety are features that work seamlessly in the field. This firearm is drop-in ready for its intended use—no gunsmithing required to get you on the range or in the blind.
Cons: At around 7.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest option for long walks in steep terrain. The fixed choke configuration (if not threaded for tubes) on some older models limits patterning flexibility, though many newer 101s are threaded. As a break-action, your capacity is limited to two shells, which demands more precise shooting. The manual safety must be disengaged each time you open and close the action, a step some modern shooters find slow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this model threaded for choke tubes?
A: Most modern production Winchester 101 shotguns come with interchangeable choke tubes (typically Invector-style), providing great flexibility for different targets and distances. It’s always best to confirm the specific choke system with the seller at the time of purchase.
Q: What is the length of pull on this shotgun?
A: The standard length of pull on a Winchester 101 is typically around 14 1/2 inches, which fits a wide range of adult shooters. For reference, the overall length of the firearm is approximately 45.5 inches, contributing to its balanced handling.
Q: Can this shotgun handle steel shot for waterfowl hunting?
A: Yes, the 3-inch chamber and modern steel construction are designed to handle non-toxic steel shot. Always use choke tubes rated for steel shot when waterfowl hunting to avoid damage to the barrel or choke.
This Winchester 101 is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full product details to secure this classic field gun.




Reviews
There are no reviews yet.