JC Higgins model 120.25 12ga pump

[jb683]

I inherited this shotgun from my father in law and was wondering if anyone knew where I could find and information on it. I know it was most likely a Stevens or savage but I wonder about the age. I have completely taken it down and cleaned it (for the first time it seems) and it is worn, but useable. The only other thing it has stamped on it is ... Proof tested - 12 gauge 2 3/4" chamber. It appears to have a serial of 92311 just behind the trigger guard. Any information would be nice.

[hogdogs]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._C._Higgins

[357 Python]

Check Numrich Arms to see if they have a schematic on it. I don't know about yours but the J.C. Higgins model 20 pump is a High Standard model 200. They were sold by Sears.

[oregunner]

The Blue Book lists a Sears 102.25 and am thinking you may have mistyped. No 120.25. If so, it is a Stevens Model 520A, designed by John Browning and books for $75-$190 depending on condition.
Mark

[jb683]

I am looking at the numbers now with a magnifying glass (it happens as we get older) and it is printed JC Higgins 102.25, Sears & Roebuck Co. Also mine has the squared off reciver, and the model 20 or 620 has more of a rounded reciver. This one looks more like the Savage/Standard 520, with some small trigger group differences. The problem is I have found manuals and approximate ages for quite a few differant models, but none for this one. Anyway thanks for the help.

[oregunner]

According the current Blue Book, a Sears 102.25 is a Stevens 520A. Here are some images I found. Mark

[jb683]

Thanks ... thats it!

[Dave McC]

Lee Lapin knows more about 520s than I, but here goes....

It's a John Moses Browning design. That means it's rugged, reliable, durable and requires sophisticated machining to build. Tolerances are tight, and the last of these left the factory decades ago.

Being cautious ( which is how I got to be this old), I'd have a good smith go over it before shooting.

These are a bit undervalued on the market. NRA Good brings maybe $250 at best, but you do not want to sell your inheritance.