Browning Model 12 Pump Shotgun 28g 26” Ducks Unlimited Commemorative w/Box
SOLD FOR: $1,875.00
LSB#: LSB250718LT142
Make: Browning
Model: Model 12 (Ducks Unlimited Commemorative)
Serial Number: 00564 DU 028
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1990s (Made in Japan by Miroku — estimate based on maker marking and Ducks Unlimited series)
Caliber: 28 Gauge
Action Type: Pump Action (Tubular Magazine)
Barrel Length: 26″
Markings: The receiver is engraved with scrollwork and gold-filled game-bird inlays with the script “Ducks Unlimited” on the left side and the gold Browning duck head logo on the top tang. The box label is marked “M-12 PUMP SHOTGUN” with serial No. 00564 DU 028, Grade: DU. Maker/import markings indicate manufacture in Japan (Miroku) for Browning.
Sights / Optics: Bead front sight on a ventilated rib. Standard sighting configuration for a sporting/commemorative pump shotgun.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock and forend are high-grade, highly figured walnut with a glossy finish and checkered panels on the pistol grip and forend. The wood displays attractive, vivid figuring and deep color; there are a few light surface handling marks and minor storage scuffs, but no cracks or splits visible in the supplied images. The recoil pad is fitted and appears serviceable.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Internal tubular magazine. Typical capacities on this model/grade vary with shell length; expect 3–4 rounds depending on shell length. Magazine tube and follower appear intact from photos; confirm capacity and function during hands-on inspection.
Type of Finish: Factory blue/black finish on metal with gold inlay engraving. The engraving is enriched with gold fill on the birds and script, consistent with Ducks Unlimited deluxe presentation pieces.
Finish Originality: Factory original — the metal shows the original finish and gold inlay. There are light handling marks and small storage wear spots visible on close inspection, but no obvious heavy rebluing or refinishing apparent in the supplied images.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: Very good for a display/collector-grade commemorative. The receiver engraving and gold inlay remain strong and attractive. The wood is high-grade and well finished with only light handling wear. The metal shows expected handling/scuff marks from storage and light use, but no structural damage is evident in the supplied photos. The original box, paperwork/hangtag, and fitted foam tray are present and add appreciably to the overall collectibility and marketability.
Mechanics: The pump action is smooth to cycle in the supplied photos, and the manual inspection indicates proper alignment of the forend, action bars, and bolt. The firing components and safety should be tested by a qualified gunsmith before use; as with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. This example is assumed functional unless noted otherwise; we recommend a live-fire check with safe range procedures and a qualified armorer before extended use.
Accessories: Original cardboard factory box and inner foam tray, manual/hangtag, and paperwork as shown. These factory items significantly improve presentation and resale appeal.
Our Assessment:
The Browning Model 12 Ducks Unlimited Commemorative in 28 gauge is more than just a fine pump-action shotgun — it’s a symbol of America’s waterfowling heritage and a tribute to one of the most important conservation groups in North America. Ducks Unlimited’s mission to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands is directly tied to the heritage of shotgunning, and this firearm embodies that spirit with its gold-inlaid game scenes and the “Ducks Unlimited” script proudly engraved on the receiver.
Built by Miroku in Japan to Browning’s exacting standards, this commemorative blends artistry with function. The richly figured walnut stock, high-polish finish, and detailed engraving make it a showpiece, while the smooth action and proven Model 12 design mean it would perform in the field just as its predecessors did for generations of hunters. Its chambering in 28 gauge further distinguishes it, appealing to both upland enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its scarcity.
For the Ducks Unlimited member, the Browning enthusiast, or the dedicated shotgun collector, this is a piece that connects conservation values with craftsmanship. It’s as fitting for display alongside a lifetime DU membership plaque as it is for careful use in the field. Complete with its original box and paperwork, it stands as both an investment-grade commemorative and a tangible link to DU’s vision of wetlands “sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.” So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
