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NEW SEMI-AUTOMATIC SHOTGUN ANNOUNCED
The first semi-automatic shotgun that will
stay on target shot after shot as fast as the
trigger is pulled was unveiled recently by Win
chester after 16 years of research.
The new Model 50 is the world’s first self-load
ing shotgun with a non-recoiling barrel and an
independent chamber. The unique chamber moves
less than one-tenth of an inch! This tiny move
ment not only actuates the breech bolt but also
starts the entire cycle of unlocking, extraction, re
loading and locking.
The recoil effect of the Model 50 is 20 to 30
per cent “softer'’ than other semi-automatics, said
J. T. Boone, sales manager of the Arms and Am
munition Division of Olin Industries, Inc., mak
ers of Winchester and Western sporting arms and
ammunition.
Another result of the new design is that the
aim-disrupting clatter and "double-shuffle” com
mon to all self-loading shotguns have been en
tirely eliminated.
Oscillograph patterns show that the energy ex
pended in recoil by the Model 50 travels to the
shoulder from the chamber in a gradual pushing,
rather than a punching action, Mr. Boone said.
Thus the gun greatly decreases whatever tendency
the shooter has to flinch. The combination of
"soft” recoil and fixed barrel contributes to faster
pointing and closer holding.
Although the Model 50 shoots as fast as the
trigger can be pulled, the trigger design makes it
impossible for the gun to go fully automatic.
The new gun may be taken apart and assembled
without tools of any kind Even new barrels may
be fitted by the owner; there is no need to return
the gun to the factory for special machining.
All low and high base shotgun loads of the pro
per length and gauge may be fired without mak
ing any adjustments in the gun.
The barrel and receiver of the Model 50 are
made of heat-treated chrome molybdenum Win
chester-proof steel. Other critical parts, including
the independent chamber, are of high alloy-heat-
treated chrome vanadium steel. The hand-check
ered pistol-grip stock and forearm are of Ameri
can walnut finished in natural tones.
The Model 50 is available in field, trap or skeet
grades with plain or ventilated rib barrels. The
ventilated rib, which provides an unbroken sight
ing plane, is an unusual feature on a self-loading
shotgun.
The Model 50 is priced from $120.50.
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