Better yet, get a copy for reference. The Model 12 is one of many designed by John Pedersen. The public got its first glimpse in September 1909, when enthusiasts could take one home for $12.95.

The Model 12’s demise after a 50-year run also signaled Winchester’s demise, although it took a few decades. Anybody who has browsed around gun shows has heard the term “pre-’64.” ...

Unable to beat the Model 12 head-to-head, Remington came up with a gun to undercut the Model 12 and kill it. The 870 appeared in 1950 .

The Remington Model 31 was Remington’s pump gun before the 870. (Photo/Courtesy of the Rock Island Auction Company) But, the Model 31′s slick-stroking action didn’t come cheap.

Remington named the gun "Model 11" and sold about 850,000 units until 1947. In 1949, Remington gave the Model 11 some major cosmetic changes and called it the Model 11-48.