What is the history and value of a Wards Western Field automatic 12 gauge shotgun?

Answer 1

With any store-brand, you first need to find a cross-reference to the actual manufacturer and model. This can usually be used to determine the approximate age. In most cases, it will be valued at about 2/3 of the same gun sold under the manufacturer's name. For a modern shotgun (anything manufactured after 1900 is modern for all practical purposes) a value can usually be determined by finding the lowest price for a new gun of similar configuration: single shot, double barrel, automatic, slide action, or bolt action. A used shotgun will be worth about 1/2 to 1/3 of that price, depending on condition. I Have A Wards Western Field 12 Gauge Autoloader Shotgun, Model 600A ERI, The gun resembled a Remington, so I Contacted Remington's Historian and was informed that the gun was made for Montgomery Wards for a 3 year run from 1967-1969 with total production being around 3,000 guns total, mine based on the serial number was manufactured in 1968, as far as value the previous answer is still going to be the same.