Book Review by David R. Chicoine 12/27/02
1990, Ned Schwing. Hardcover, 8-1/2 x 11, 360 pages, 375 b&w photos, 16-page color section, Krause Publications. Dept. BNP, P.O. Box 5009, Iola, WI 54945-5009. (800) 258-0929. $49.95 plus $4. P&H.
Many folks believe the Winchester Model 21 was the finest shotgun produced in America. Whether or not you believe that, there is no question that the 21 was a fine shotgun that proved itself many times over its 60-year production. From its very beginnings when the Winchester Company set out to make a "best quality" shotgun on the production line, the Model 21 has gained an excellent reputation for its simple, dependable and robust action.
When Krause, the book's publisher, called this book "the most complete guide to the finest double-barrel side-by-side shotgun made in America", they were being quite truthful, for it is every bit of that. The Olin Corporation designated this book, written by Ned Schwing, as "the official history of the Model 21 Shotgun." In my career as a gunsmith, this reviewer has worked on, and fired, at least two hundred Model 21s. In that light, perhaps the best compliment I can pay the author is this-as much as I thought I knew about the Model 21, I have to admit I learned even more from this book.
In his extremely well written treatise, the author, Ned Schwing, has managed to include more solid information than has ever been compiled in one place about the Model 21. The chronological order of text, the excellent photography and the overall attention paid to details is outstanding. The result is a beautiful hardbound book that is truly a delight for the senses!