S&W Model 916

Smith & Wesson · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1972

Also known as: Eastfield Model 916, S&W 916A, S&W 916T

Overview

The S&W Model 916 is a pump-action shotgun produced by Smith & Wesson from 1972 to 1980. Chambered primarily in 12 gauge with a tubular magazine and a single action bar, it was built on patents and tooling Smith & Wesson acquired from the bankrupt Noble Manufacturing Company, derived from the Noble Model 66. The receiver was machined from a solid block of ordnance-grade steel, and the gun used a tang-mounted safety and a simple bead front sight. It was offered as the sporting Model 916, the takedown Model 916T, and the short-barrelled tactical Model 916A.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3200 g (112.9 oz)
Overall Length1245 mm (49.02")
Barrel Length711 mm (27.99")
Action TypePump Action
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Action
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeTubular
Muzzle Velocity400 m/s (1312 fps)
Muzzle Energy2560 J (1888 ft·lbf)
Effective Range40 m (44 yd)
Barrel RiflingNone
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWood
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Variants

Production

Estimated total produced: 10,000 · Production years: 1972-1980

Built from Noble Model 66 tooling and patents acquired by Smith & Wesson; some sources cite production ending in 1978.

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Designer: Noble Manufacturing Company

Discontinued: 1980

Notes

Also chambered in 16 and 20 gauge in some configurations. Sporting barrels were offered in 26, 28, and 30 inch lengths; the tactical 916A used a 20 inch barrel. Approximately 10,000 units were produced before the line was discontinued.

Background

Smith & Wesson entered the pump shotgun market by purchasing the patents and tooling of the bankrupt Noble Manufacturing Company in 1972, basing the Model 916 on Noble's Model 66 design.