J.C. Higgins SEARS Model 21 .410 Ga. 26” Pump-Action Shotgun MFD 1964 C&R
SOLD FOR: $830
WOA#: WY231111GW023
Make: J.C. Higgins, Sears
Model: 21
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: 1964 (BH DATE CODE)
Gauge: 21 Gauge, 2 ¾” or 3” Shells
Action Type: Pump Action Shotgun with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “SEARS ROEBUCK AND CO. / MOD.21.410 GA.583.2087”, “SEARS”, “HPS”, with a BH date code. The right side of the barrel is marked “PROOF TESTED .410 GA. / CHAMBERED FOR 2 ½” AND 3” SHELLS”.
Barrel Length: 26”
Choke: Fixed, FULL
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bead set on the barrel at the muzzle. The top of the receiver is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece walnut hardwood with straight comb, semi-pistol grip, finger grooved pump grip, and serrated hard rubber buttplate. There is a very minor shallow nick on the bottom of the pump grip and some tiny scuffs on the buttstock. Other than that, the stocks are pristine. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the serrated buttplate. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition. The buttstock has a nylon 10 shot side saddle.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The smooth bore is very bright. There is very little to no visible erosion in the bore. In my opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are some small scratches on the receiver including a few drag lines on top of the receiver especially above the ejection port. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Excellent condition for a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun comes with a 10 shot buttstock side saddle.
Our Assessment: The Sears Roebuck and Co. Model 21 .410 GA with the catalog number 583.2087 is a classic example of mid-20th century American shotgun craftsmanship, specifically designed for the .410 bore. This model, sold under the Sears brand, reflects the era’s consumer approach to firearms, where department stores like Sears Roebuck offered a range of firearms to the general public. The Model 21 is particularly notable for its accessibility and affordability, making it a popular choice for casual shooters and beginners.
Over the years, the Sears Roebuck Model 21 .410 has gained a sort of nostalgic charm among collectors and firearms enthusiasts. It represents an era when shotguns were more widely accessible and commonly found in households for various purposes, from sport to home defense. Its presence in the market also highlights the historical relationship between department stores and firearm sales in the United States, a practice that has significantly changed in recent decades. The Model 21, therefore, is not just a tool for shooting but also a piece of Americana, reflecting the societal and economic trends of its time. Please see our photos and good luck! -L.S.
