J.C. Higgins Model 66
High Standard Manufacturing · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1956
Also known as: Sears Model 66, J.C. Higgins 66
Overview
The J.C. Higgins Model 66 is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, manufactured by High Standard and sold under the J.C. Higgins house brand through Sears, Roebuck & Co. from the mid-1950s. It replaced the earlier long-recoil Model 60, adopting a smooth-cycling gas-operated action, a walnut stock and forend, and a steel receiver. Frequently fitted with an adjustable choke, it served as an affordable and dependable field gun for hunting, clay shooting, and general use, and is regarded as one of the forerunners of the modern semi-automatic sporting shotgun.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3400 g (119.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1245 mm (49.02") |
| Barrel Length | 711 mm (27.99") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tubular |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2560 J (1888 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Cross Bolt Safety
- Features: Gas Operated Action, Adjustable Choke, Walnut Stock, Tubular Magazine, Vented Rib Barrel
Service history
Operators
- Civilian hunters and sport shooters
Production
Production years: 1956-1963
Produced by High Standard for Sears, Roebuck & Co. from the mid-1950s into the early 1960s, succeeding the Model 60.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: High Standard
Discontinued: 1963
Notes
Sold as a Sears house-brand rebadge of a High Standard Supermatic-pattern gas-operated shotgun. Barrels were offered in 22, 24, 26, 27, and 28 inch lengths with tube magazine capacities of four or five shells depending on configuration.
Background
Sold through the Sears catalog under the J.C. Higgins sporting-goods brand, the Model 66 brought an affordable gas-operated autoloader to American hunters at a time when semi-automatic shotguns were still a premium item, helping popularize the design for everyday field use.