15-Sep-2025
The Winchester Model 23 is one of those shotguns that quietly holds a special place in shooting history. Produced between 1978 and the mid-1980s, it has become a classic in its own right, admired for its craftsmanship and practicality. But when discussing the Model 23, two other names always come up: the Winchester Model 21 and the Winchester 101.
Launched in 1978, the Model 23 was introduced as a modern successor to the Model 21, which had been discontinued in the 1960s. Built at the Olin-Kodensha factory in Japan, the Model 23 combined traditional side-by-side styling with robust, modern manufacturing.
Key features included:
Side-by-side, boxlock action
Double triggers (single selective trigger available on some)
Automatic ejectors
Straight English or pistol-grip stock options
High-quality walnut and fine checkering
Available in 12, 20, and 28 gauge (with rare .410 examples)
Variants of the Model 23:
Classic Field – standard game gun, versatile and well-balanced
Pigeon Grade – upgraded walnut, engraving, and higher finish
Golden Quail – limited edition, 20 and 28 gauge, highly collectable
Heavy Duck – 12 gauge magnum version designed for wild fowling
Produced in the U.S. from 1931 until 1960.
Hand-built, side-by-side with exceptional strength (famous for handling magnum loads).
Known for its superb fit and finish — often considered one of the finest American shotguns ever made.
Extremely collectable today, with prices often starting around £7,000–£10,000+ depending on grade.
Verdict: The Model 21 is the luxury classic. Rare, expensive, and more of a collector’s piece than an everyday field gun.
Introduced in 1978, produced in Japan to very high standards.
Designed as a practical alternative to the Model 21.
Affordable compared to the 21, while still offering excellent build quality.
Collectable editions like the Golden Quail are now rising in value.
Verdict: The Model 23 is the sweet spot — less expensive than the 21, but still refined and highly usable as a field or game gun.
Introduced in the 1960s, also built at Olin-Kodensha in Japan.
Over-and-under configuration, making it more popular with clay shooters and modern field shooters.
Known for durability, lighter handling, and affordability compared to European O/Us.
Still widely available second-hand, often between £800–£2,000 depending on grade and condition.
Verdict: The Model 101 is the most practical for everyday shooters who prefer an over-and-under. Not as collectable, but reliable and accessible.
Collectors: If you want prestige and investment value, the Model 21 is the crown jewel.
Shooters who love side-by-sides: The Model 23 offers the best balance of quality, usability, and collectibility.
Practical shooters: The Model 101 is the most affordable and widely available, with the over-and-under layout many prefer today.
The Winchester Model 23 remains one of the most interesting and underrated side-by-sides ever produced. Positioned between the luxury Model 21 and the widely popular Model 101, it offers shooters and collectors a unique combination of heritage, quality, and practicality.
For those looking for a shotgun that’s more than just a tool, the Winchester 23 is a fine choice — a shotgun you can shoot with pride, and one that will only become rarer and more desirable over time.
Explore Winchester 23 Shotguns now
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