High Standard Sears Model 20 Imperial Grade 12 GA 2 3/4 Pump Shotgun C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
LSB#: LSB251206BC051
Make: House Brand: J.C Higgins, Original Manufacturer: High Standard for Sears
Model: 20, Imperial Grade
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: 1955-1960 / C&R
Gauge: 12 GA, 2 ¾” Shells
Choke: J.C Higgins Adjustable Choke
Action Type: Pump-Action, Mag-Tube Fed
Barrel Length: 26.5″ with adjustable choke system.
Sights / Optics: The top of the adjustable choke has a brass bead front sight. The top of the vent-rib and receiver are serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece walnut with checkered capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, JC Higgins vented rubber buttpad, and checkered pump grip. The LOP measures 14″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition. There are no chips or cracks. There are some scratches and compression marks throughout. The checkering is sharp.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The smooth bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 65% of its metal finish. There is thinning throughout. There are scratches and oxidization throughout. Most of the blue finish has turned to a patina. There is operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The J.C. Higgins Model 20 pump shotgun was produced for Sears, Roebuck and Company by High Standard during the 1950s and represents one of the better built pump action shotguns offered through the Sears sporting catalog. While the Model 20 line included several variations, the Imperial Grade was among the most desirable and uncommon versions. These higher grade examples featured upgraded walnut stocks, checkering, and refined finishing compared to the standard field models. Production numbers for the Imperial Grade were limited, and it is commonly estimated that only a few hundred were manufactured, making surviving examples significantly less common than the standard Model 20 variants that were widely sold during the period. Chambered for the proven 12 gauge cartridge, these pump shotguns were built to provide reliable field performance for hunters during the mid twentieth century.
This Imperial Grade example features a 26.5 inch barrel fitted with the J.C. Higgins adjustable choke system, allowing the shooter to tune the pattern for different hunting situations. The shotgun retains about 65 percent of its original metal finish with thinning blue and areas that have developed a natural patina from age and handling. The upgraded walnut stock set with checkered capped semi pistol grip, fluted straight comb, J.C. Higgins vented rubber buttpad, and checkered pump grip remains in very good condition with sharp checkering and only light handling marks. The bore remains bright and rates highly, the markings are clear, and the action functions correctly, preserving the character of a scarce Imperial Grade example of the High Standard produced J.C. Higgins Model 20 pump shotgun. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -N.P