How do you install a plug in model 12 Winchester shotgun 20 gauge?

Answer 1

It's pretty simple, get a piece of 1/2" dowel from the hardware store, cut it to the same length as the number of shells you want to exclude from the magazine, then round the edges of the dowel over with a piece of sand paper so it wont snag on the magazine spring. For the model 12, you want approximately 10-1/2". A better approach would be to buy a plastic plug from Brownells or similar suppliers since wood tends to absorb and hold moisture, and may promote rusting. The Brownells "FITS-ALL" SHOTGUN MAGAZINE PLUG will be perfect at full length in the model 12. Remove the 2 screws from the end cap. Slowly push the pin out The pin will go farther in one direction than the other. The farther direction is the correct direction. Once it is nearly out you will see a small piece of spring steel along the side of it. Depress the end of the spring that is nearest the cap, and it should allow the pin to slide completely out. Remember there's a big spring inside that tube magazine, so be careful when you remove the cap at the muzzle end. Slip the dowel inside the spring in the magazine tube and put the cap back on. Replace the cap, and use the pin to hold it in place. Replace the 2 screws making sure to get them tight, but do not overtighten or you may strip them. Once it is all reassembled, try it to make sure it will ONLY accept 2 shells.