Winchester 101 Pigeon Grade Skeet 20 GA O/U Over Under Shotgun, 1974-1987
SOLD FOR: $1,780.00
LSB#: WY240720FL006
Make: Winchester
Model: 101 Pigeon Grade
Serial Number: PK257934
Year of Manufacture: 1974-1987
Gauge: 20 Gauge, 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Top-Break Over/Under Shotgun with Single Selective Inertial Trigger and Ejectors
Markings: The left side of the top barrel is marked “WINCHESTER -20 GAUGE- 2 ¾” / NEW HAVEN CONN. – U.S.A.” Both barrels are marked “SKEET” with Winchester proof marks. The top of the rib is marked “PIGEON GRADE”. The right side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN JAPAN”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL”. The barrel lug is marked “257934 / 20-2 3/4”. The silver receiver is deluxe scroll engraved. There is a pigeon and “WINCHESTER” on the bottom of the receiver. The top tang is marked “PK257934?. The forend hardware is marked “257934” and the inside wood is stamped “7934”.
Barrel Length: 27”, Vent-Rib
Choke: Both Skeet, Both Fixed
Sights / Optics: There is a white bead in a base at the front of the rib and a smaller white mid-bead. The rib is finely serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture set is a two-piece checkered walnut with semi-beavertail forend with finger shelf. The stock is a semi-pistol grip, with fluted straight comb and serrated black plastic buttplate. The forend shows only light handling marks. The buttstock shows only a few minor scattered marks, the only notable mark is a very small scratch on the left side just below the comb near the butt. There are no chips or cracks. LOP measures 14? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has some residue in the serrations, light wear at the heel and toe, and sharp serrations. Drop at comb is approximately 1 1/2?, drop at heel 2 3/8?. The cast is slightly right handed. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Coin
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mirror bright and show no erosion. The top barrel shows some very minor lines from use with a small amount of plastic fouling in the forcing cone. The bottom barrel is very clean. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The barrels have minor rub wear from the forend, concealed when assembled. The action shows minor operational wear again concealed when assembled. The bottom of the receiver has small rub marks just above the pigeon head. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Very Fine + condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly including ejectors. The barrels lock up with no play. The safety does not return to safe when the action is opened, but functions properly when engaged manually. 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 Winchester 101 Pigeon Grade over/under shotgun in 20 gauge is a highly regarded model that represents a blend of craftsmanship, performance, and elegance. Manufactured in Japan, the Pigeon Grade version of the Winchester 101 is one of the premium offerings in the 101 line, known for its superior wood, intricate engraving, and attention to detail.
This particular model features 27-inch barrels with fixed skeet chokes, making it an excellent choice for skeet shooting and other close-range shotgun sports. The fixed skeet chokes provide a wide, even shot pattern, ideal for breaking clay targets or shooting fast-moving game birds at close distances. The shorter barrel length also makes the shotgun fast-handling and easy to maneuver, giving it a responsive feel when swinging through targets.
The Pigeon Grade designation refers to the enhanced level of detailing and finish applied to the shotgun. The receiver is adorned with fine scroll engraving, including the depiction of a pigeon, adding a luxurious and artistic element to the firearm. The stock and forend are made from select walnut with fine checkering on the grip and forend, providing both beauty and a secure hold.
The Winchester 101 is renowned for its reliability, balance, and durability. It features a low-profile receiver that gives it a sleek and elegant appearance, while also contributing to its excellent balance in the hands. The mechanics of the 101 series, including the locking mechanism and trigger system, are respected for their durability and crisp operation.
In summary, this Winchester 101 Pigeon Grade Skeet is a well-crafted shotgun designed for skeet shooting and other close-range applications. Its high-grade materials, elegant engraving, and solid performance make it both a functional sporting shotgun and a collector’s piece. To better understand this shotgun please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
