DEVELOPMENTAL US 12 GA, TRENCH SHOTGUN

SERIAL NUMBER NSN BARREL 18 1/2" CALIBER 12 GA, MANUFACTURED CIRCA 1960'S. Unknown production but believed either done at a depot level or US Gov't contractor level J.C. Higgins model 583.20 12 ga, tube fed bolt action shotgun with smooth oil finished walnut stock with period red recoil pad. US Ordnance bomb inspection with hardness test marking on chamber with matching proof on receiver ring. Full choke marking lined out and "CYL." struck below original marking. Barrel shortened to 18 1/2" and fitted with original Winchester contracted ventilated handguard with bayonet lug for the Enfield 1917 bayonet. Lug marked "W" for Winchester and date code marked "6.59" . Stock has been professionally milled internally to facilitate the fit of the heat shield. Butt stock has been professionally milled to accept 1903-A3 stamped butt sling swivel. This is a unique, professionally modified trench style shotgun from the June 1959 era and was recently discovered in the Central Ohio region, This region had a great number of US Gov't contractors located in it. Additional research could prove extremely informative. CONDITION. Very good with walnut stock being very fine with no distress. Metal has turned a plum color from use. Handguard with lug assembly is good with freckling. Bore is excellent and action operates properly. A unique developmental item from the Bay of Pigs era. C&R