AFTE Store - Potentially Unsafe Firing Condition of Short Shells in Certain Winchester Shotguns

The examination of a Winchester Model 1300 pump action shotgun revealed a potentially unsafe firing condition. Under certain unique conditions it may be possible for the trigger and safety button to retain the hammer in a partially-cocked position, not captured by the sear. Releasing the safety in this condition will release the hammer. This may cause the firearm to fire unexpectedly when using certain shotshells that the firearm was not intended to be used with according to the owner’s manual. A similar trigger group as the one found in this shotgun is found in several other Winchester firearms and possibly firearms from other manufacturers. This potentially unsafe condition is being documented in order to prevent injuries and aid in firearm examinations.