1911 Winchester "Widow Maker"

[McNally M.]

Hey guys,

I'm a shotgun amateur. I've never owned one before but that may change soon.

A buddy of mine is thinking of selling his vintage 1911 Winchester Semi-Automatic shotgun. He hasn't specified a price yet but I was wondering what the going rates on those things are. I saw one on Gunbroker for $175, is that about what one pays for a widow maker?

He tells me its in nice condition, all working with no broken parts. I know the Winchester proved to be a pretty poor shotgun as it was hastily built to compete with Remington's semi-auto. Also, I hear modern ammo is too aggressive on the barrel and can cause damage.

Please let me know what you think of this shotgun, the price I should pay. Whether I should be looking at this purchase as I gun to shoot or simply as a gun to collect, etc. I'm all ears.

[psssniper]

Here's some info on a thread from another board

http://forums.gunboards.com/showthre...emi-Auto-12-Ga.

[swifty]

Don't buy one if you want it as a shooter.

[BigDogatPlay]

Mechanically it's a poor design. I would never consider owning one as a shooter and $175 is too much to pay for a wall hanger.

[adamt22]

I have one. I got one cuz it was c&r and i wanted to go dove hunting with my buddies and I didn't want to wait the 10 day period I shoot it with modern dove loads it shoots fine kicks like a mule but none the less worked fine. I've since then bought a new gun so if you want it for $150 I'm not a collector an it's been in my safe collecting dust for awhile