Description
The Century PW87 Lever Action Shotgun is a modern, budget-friendly reproduction of the classic Winchester 1887, featuring a 20-inch barrel. It delivers the iconic Old West lever-action experience for shooting 12-gauge 2 3/4″ shells at a price point that makes history affordable. This is a functional, no-frills workhorse built for practical use and nostalgic fun.
Key Features
- Iconic Lever-Action Design: Based on the legendary Winchester 1887, offering a unique shooting experience distinct from pumps or semi-autos.
- 20-Inch Barrel: Provides a handy, maneuverable length ideal for home defense or brush hunting.
- Budget-Conscious Price: At $372.51, it represents significant value compared to other lever-action shotguns or custom reproductions.
- Classic Styling: Blued finish and walnut-finished hardwood stock capture the traditional look.
- Side-Ejecting Action: Faithful to the original John Browning design.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Lever Action |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ Shells) |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39.5 Inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs |
This shotgun is chambered for standard 2 3/4-inch 12-gauge shells—avoid magnums or modern 3-inch shells. Its tubular magazine holds five rounds, plus one in the chamber. The 8.5-pound weight helps manage recoil, making it a solid platform for its intended use. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your local FFL. Here’s the thing—while it’s a faithful reproduction in function and form, it’s built for the modern budget-minded shooter who wants that classic feel without a collector’s price tag.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the shooter who values practical nostalgia. It’s ideal for the budget-conscious history buff, the cowboy action shooting enthusiast on a tight budget, or someone seeking a unique, reliable home defense tool that operates differently from every other shotgun on the rack. It’s also a fantastic conversation piece at the range. If you’ve ever wanted the handling and cool factor of a Terminator-style shotgun but needed a real-world price, the PW87 answers that call. The trade-off for the low price is accepting a utilitarian finish and potentially a stiffer action out of the box that will smooth with use.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Unbeatable price for a lever-action shotgun. Delivers the unique, satisfying manual operation of a classic design. The 20-inch barrel is highly maneuverable. It’s a proven, simple mechanical design that’s easy to understand and maintain. It fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required for basic function.
Cons: The action can be stiff initially and requires practice to run smoothly and quickly. It’s limited to 2 3/4″ shells only. It’s heavier than many modern pump-actions. The finish and wood are basic, reflecting its price point—this is a tool, not a showpiece. Sourcing a dedicated leather scabbard or aftermarket parts specific to the 1887 pattern may require more hunting than for an AR or common pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can it shoot 3-inch magnum or steel shot shells?
A: No. The Century PW87 is chambered for 2 3/4-inch 12-gauge shells only. Using longer or higher-pressure shells is unsafe and can damage the firearm. Stick to standard target, buckshot, or slug loads in the correct length.
Q: Is it difficult to learn the lever action for a shotgun?
A: It has a learning curve if you’re used to pumps. The motion is different and requires a firm, full stroke. With practice, it becomes second nature. The manual of arms is simple, but achieving speed takes more dedication than with a modern pump-action.
Q: What kind of maintenance does it need?
A: Like any firearm, regular cleaning is key. The lever action has several pivot points and the bolt track that benefit from proper lubrication. Disassembly for basic cleaning is straightforward, and it’s compatible with standard 12-gauge cleaning kits and solvents used for any other shotgun.
Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See if this piece of shooting history fits your needs and budget.
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