Old western field 20 guage pump shotgun

Question
I received it from my father and he got it from my grandfather.  It is a model 35 sold by Montgomery Wards I think??  I am 72 and therefore I belive it is over 80 at least.  There is a serial  number U or W 124139.  2 3/4 inch chamber.  I would like to how old it is, and is it worth fixing up.

Answer
Kenneth,

Your Western Field model 35 is actually most likely a Stevens model 520A.  These were produced mostly between 1904 and 1932.  Most of the store brands were produced by one of the larger manufacturers and private labeled for stores like Montgomery Wards, Sears, J.C. Penney, etc.  

In most cases these guns are not considered to be collectable.  The value of the gun might be in the $125 to $175 range, but certainly not more.  It would have to be in pretty good condition to bring that price.  If it needs a lot of fixing up, it probably isn't worth it.  It may not even be shootable.  A reputable gunsmith could tell you if it was safe to shoot or not.

Sounds like you have a piece that has sentimental value to you because it belonged to your Dad and your Grandfather.  You could probably clean it up a bit, but I probably wouldn't spend a bunch of money on it...it just doesn't have any collector value.

There really isn't a way of dating them as the serial number records are long gone...

Wish I could help you out more...

Best regards,

Doug Little