Winchester model 37 12 ga

[78spitfire0]

I am looking at a winchester model 37 12ga. Ser# h4 . Is this a good gun and any help on what year it is?

 

[darend505]

Overview

The Winchester Model 37 (M37) Single Shot Shotgun is an American firearm. It was in production from 1936-1963 with 1,015,554 units made. This model was developed by Winchester with a standard visible hammer action for many years. The Winchester Model 37 uses a top-cocking lever, breakdown type of action with an automatic shell ejector. The first M37 shotguns were delivered on February 10th, 1936 according to factory records. Notably M37 shotguns were not serial numbered.
[edit]Technical Specifications

The M37 came in two styles, Standard and Boy's Model (introduced 1958). Modified choke or cylinder bore was furnished at no extra charge on special order only. The M37 was chambered in the following gauges and shells respectively: 12, 16, 20, 28, and 410 using 2 3/4", 2 3/4", 2 3/4", 2 7/8", 3" shells. The M37 unit weight was between 5 3/4 to 6 lbs, the fluctuation was dependent on the chambered gauge.
[edit]History

During World War II, the National Guard soldier used Winchester Model 37 12 gauge shotguns.
[edit]Production

Production changes included the folded sheet metal "pigtail" omission in the second year of production to a solid steel construction. The 410 gauge production started in the second year (1937). Early Winchester models referred to as "Red Letter" shotguns were stamped with the Winchester name and filled with red custom enamel paint until 1948. Unfortunately, M37's were manufactured without date stamps or serial numbers. There are no factory records for the yearly number of shotguns produced from 1936-1963 the entire production run.

 

[Mrmonte]

I cant find the info off hand but I seem to remember that the best way to date those is by the buttplate. Winchester made a few different changes to it over the years. That will get you close to dating your Model 37.

 

[Jacobm]

The Winchester 37 was my first firearm back in the late 60's. I've purchased 3 since then.

My wife still turkey hunts with a 16 ga. model.

Love those little guns.