Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in reliable firearms and FFL transfers. The Jc Higgins Model 20 12 Gauge Police Trade-In Pump is a robust, no-frills shotgun known for its durable action. This classic 12-gauge pump-action shotgun offers a practical solution for home defense or range use. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What is the Jc Higgins Model 20 12 Gauge Police Trade-In Pump?
The Jc Higgins Model 20 is a pump-action shotgun, often recognized for its straightforward design and sturdy construction. These particular units are police trade-ins, meaning they’ve seen service, which typically implies a certain level of reliability and function checks in their previous life. While they won’t be pristine, they’re generally solid performers. This shotgun is a 12 gauge, which is a common and versatile chambering, making ammunition readily available for various applications from home defense to hunting small game or even some clays.
For someone in Kansas looking for a practical shotgun without breaking the bank, a police trade-in like this Jc Higgins Model 20 offers a lot of utility. It’s a tool, plain and simple, designed to function when you need it to. We’ve handled plenty of these over the years during FFL transfers, and they’re generally well-regarded for their workhorse nature.
| Product Type | Pump-Action Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel receiver and barrel, wood or synthetic stock |
| Manufacturing | Sears, Roebuck and Co. (often rebranded High Standard) |
| Finish | Blued steel, wear consistent with police trade-in |
| Hardness/Quality | Robust, duty-grade construction for its era |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge shotgun shells (typically 2 3/4″ or 3″) |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use, standard pump-action operation |
| Weight | Approximately 6.5 – 7.5 lbs (unloaded, varies by stock) |
| Dimensions | Overall length typically 46-48 inches (barrel dependent) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | Used, Police Trade-In (expect cosmetic wear, mechanically sound) |
| SKU | JCHM20-12G-PT |
How do the Key Features of this Shotgun Stand Out?
- 12 Gauge Chambering: This is a versatile and powerful gauge, suitable for a wide array of uses from home defense to hunting deer or upland birds in Kansas.
- Pump-Action Reliability: The pump-action mechanism is renowned for its reliability and ability to cycle a variety of ammunition types, even in less-than-ideal conditions. It’s a proven design.
- Police Trade-In Provenance: These shotguns have been in service, meaning they’ve been maintained and are generally mechanically sound, despite cosmetic wear. They’ve been vetted.
- Durable Construction: Jc Higgins shotguns, often made by High Standard, were built to last with solid steel components.
- Classic Design: A no-frills, functional aesthetic that appeals to those who value utility over modern features.
- Affordable Entry: For a functional 12 gauge shotgun, the price point of a police trade-in makes it an accessible option for many.
Who is the Jc Higgins Model 20 12 Gauge Police Trade-In Pump For?
Buy it if:
- ✅ You need a reliable, no-nonsense 12 gauge shotgun for home defense.
- ✅ You’re looking for an affordable entry into shotgun ownership.
- ✅ You appreciate the history and ruggedness of a police trade-in firearm.
- ✅ You want a practical shotgun for hunting small game, varmints, or even deer with slugs.
- ✅ You’re an experienced shooter who understands and accepts the cosmetic wear of a used firearm.
- ✅ You’re on a budget but still demand a functional and dependable firearm.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You require a pristine, collector-grade firearm with no cosmetic blemishes.
- ❌ You prefer a semi-automatic action for faster follow-up shots. See our shotgun category for semi-auto options.
- ❌ You’re looking for a lightweight shotgun for extensive upland bird hunting where every ounce counts.
- ❌ You need a shotgun with modern features like Picatinny rails or interchangeable choke systems (though some older models might have fixed chokes).
How Does it Compare to Other Shotguns?
| Feature | Jc Higgins Model 20 (Police Trade-In) | Maverick 88 Security (Budget New) | Mossberg 590A1 (Premium Duty) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel receiver/barrel, wood/synthetic stock | Aluminum receiver, steel barrel, synthetic stock | Heavy-walled steel barrel, aluminum receiver, synthetic stock |
| Quality | Duty-proven, mechanically sound, cosmetic wear | Good functional quality for the price | Military-spec, robust, built for extreme conditions |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ or 3″) | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ or 3″) | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ or 3″) |
| Shipping | From Wichita, KS (Kansas Gunshop) | Standard dealer shipping | Standard dealer shipping |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long-lasting with proper care, already proven | Reliable for average use, good lifespan | Designed for heavy, continuous use and abuse |
| Price | ~$499.00 | ~$250 – $350 | ~$700 – $900+ |
What are the Pros and Cons of this Jc Higgins Model 20?
Pros:
- ✅ Battle-Tested Reliability: These shotguns have a history of service, indicating they’re built to function under pressure.
- ✅ Affordable Price Point: A cost-effective way to acquire a functional 12 gauge shotgun.
- ✅ Simple, Robust Design: Fewer moving parts than some modern designs, leading to fewer potential points of failure.
- ✅ Common Ammunition: 12 gauge is universally available for various purposes.
- ✅ Historical Value: For some, owning a piece of law enforcement history adds to its appeal.
- ✅ Great for Home Defense: The pump action and 12 gauge power are well-suited for defensive applications.
Cons:
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: As a police trade-in, expect scratches, dings, and finish wear. This is not a safe queen.
- ❌ Older Technology: Lacks modern features like interchangeable chokes (usually fixed), Picatinny rails, or adjustable stocks.
- ❌ Potentially Heavier Trigger Pull: Older firearms can sometimes have heavier or less refined triggers compared to newer models.
Frequently Asked Questions about Police Trade-In Shotguns
What does ‘Police Trade-In’ mean for a Jc Higgins Model 20?
A ‘Police Trade-In’ means the firearm was previously issued to and used by a law enforcement agency. These firearms are typically well-maintained mechanically but will show cosmetic wear like scratches, dings, and finish loss from holster wear, rack storage, and general duty use. They are generally reliable and fully functional.
Is a Jc Higgins Model 20 12 gauge suitable for home defense?
Yes, a 12 gauge pump-action shotgun like the Jc Higgins Model 20 is a very effective choice for home defense. Its reliability, stopping power, and the distinctive sound of racking a round are often cited as deterrents. Ensure you are familiar with its operation and practice safely.
What kind of ammunition can I use in this shotgun?
The Jc Higgins Model 20 12 gauge typically accepts 2 3/4-inch and sometimes 3-inch 12 gauge shells, depending on the specific model and chambering. Always verify the chamber length stamped on the barrel to ensure you’re using compatible ammunition. It can handle various loads, from birdshot to buckshot and slugs.
What is the typical capacity of a Jc Higgins Model 20 pump shotgun?
Most Jc Higgins Model 20 shotguns have a standard capacity of 5+1 rounds (five in the magazine tube, one in the chamber). This can vary slightly based on barrel length and specific configuration, but 5+1 is a common setup for these models.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate the online purchase and FFL transfer process, ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulations. Your purchased firearm will be shipped to your local FFL dealer for pickup.
Do these police trade-ins come with any accessories?
Police trade-in firearms typically come as the firearm only. They generally do not include original boxes, manuals, or additional accessories unless specifically stated in the product description. What you see is what you get, which helps keep the price down.
What’s the process for buying a firearm online from Kansas Gunshop?
When you buy a firearm from Kansas Gunshop, you’ll select your local FFL dealer during checkout. We will then ship the firearm to that FFL dealer. You’ll complete the necessary paperwork and background check (Form 4473) at your chosen FFL before taking possession of the firearm. Ensure your chosen FFL is willing to accept transfers.
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