J.C. Higgins Model 21

About the J.C. Higgins Model 21

The J.C. Higgins Model 21 is a 20-gauge pump-action shotgun sold under Sears, Roebuck and Co.'s J.C. Higgins house brand from the early 1960s until around 1967. It was manufactured by High Standard as a rebranded version of their small-frame Flite King series, introduced when the line was expanded to 20 gauge. Unlike the larger 12-gauge Model 20, the Model 21 used a purpose-built smaller receiver and a center locking-pin bolt suited to the lighter cartridge, paired with a tubular magazine and good-quality American walnut furniture. It earned a reputation as a smooth-cycling, lightweight working shotgun for upland hunting and clay shooting.

J.C. Higgins was a Sears house brand named after John Higgins, a longtime Sears accountant whose distinguished-sounding name was borrowed to lend prestige to the company's sporting goods line. The 20-gauge Model 21 arrived when High Standard reworked the Flite King into a dedicated small-frame action rather than simply scaling the 12-gauge gun.

J.C. Higgins Model 21 specifications

Sold under Sears store code 583.xxxx; the underlying gun is the small-frame High Standard Flite King in 20 gauge. Chambered for 2-3/4 inch shells; barrel lengths and choke arrangements (fixed choke or adjustable Poly-Choke) varied by production batch. Specifications approximate for a typical 28-inch-barrel example.