WINCHESTER MODEL 21 TOURNAMENT SKEET 16GA – 2 BARRELS, LETTER

The Winchester Model 21 is admired for its strength, unmistakable American styling, and superb handling.  Examples become considerably more interesting when found in 16 gauge. Serial number 7349 was completed in 1935 as a Tournament Skeet Grade with 26-inch barrels, and its original configuration is documented by the accompanying Winchester factory order sheet.

The factory 26-inch barrels are choked Winchester Skeet 1 and Winchester Skeet 2, making them ideally suited to skeet, close-cover upland hunting, and other fast shooting. They retain 98% blue, have mirror bores, tight ribs, and minimum wall thicknesses of .027” and .032”. The barrels are properly numbered to the gun and correspond with the configuration shown on the factory documentation.

At some point, a previous owner who clearly appreciated the gun’s handling commissioned a second set of 28-inch 16-gauge barrels. These barrels are not represented as factory Winchester barrels, but they are exceptionally well fitted and function beautifully on the gun. Choked approximately Skeet II and Light Modified, they broaden the Model 21’s usefulness for sporting clays, preserve shooting, and upland hunting where a little more choke and barrel length are desirable. They also retain 98% blue, with mirror bores, tight ribs, and substantial minimum wall thicknesses of .035” and .036”.

The action remains tight on the hinge and standing breech with either barrel set. Both sets of ejectors are properly timed, and the gun is equipped with Winchester’s crisp single selective trigger. The receiver retains approximately 99% of its finish, the trigger guard retains virtually all of its blue, and the screws remain excellent.

The pistol-grip stock and beavertail forend are fashioned from handsome walnut showing flowing grain and areas of fiddleback. Checkering remains sharp and well defined, and the stock terminates in a Winchester recoil pad. Dimensions include a 13 7/8” length of pull, 1 5/8” drop at comb, and 2 1/2” drop at heel. At 6 lbs. 11 oz., the gun has enough substance for smooth, controlled shooting without losing the lively character expected of a well-balanced 16 gauge.

A canvas-covered hard case is included. It is not represented as a Winchester factory case, but it provides secure storage for the gun and both barrel sets.

This is an unusually versatile example of the classic American double: an early, factory-documented Tournament Skeet Grade in the scarce and highly desirable 16 gauge, retaining excellent finishes and accompanied by a well-fitted second barrel set. Use the original 26-inch barrels for skeet and close-cover birds, then install the 28-inch barrels when greater reach and versatility are called for. Few Model 21s offer this combination of documentation, condition, gauge, and practical shooting utility.