The Iver Johnson Champion 16 Gauge is one of the most successful and long-lasting single-shot shotguns in American history. Manufactured from 1909 all the way into the 1970s, the Champion was the backbone of Iver Johnson's firearm lineup. Millions were sold through hardware stores and mail-order catalogs because they were incredibly reliable, affordable, and built like tanks.The 16-gauge version represents a classic, old-school hunting tradition. Often called the "sweet sixteen," the 16 gauge bridges the gap between the power of a 12 gauge and the lighter recoil of a 20 gauge.Key Specifications & FeaturesAction: Traditional break-open single-shot activated by a top lever.The "Owl's Head" Trademark: Early and mid-century models feature a distinct owl's head logo stamped onto the plastic buttplate or grip cap, which is the famous trademark of Iver Johnson.Hammer & Safety: It utilizes an exposed external hammer that must be cocked manually. It also featured an "Automatic Rebounding Hammer" safety feature to prevent the gun from accidentally firing if dropped.The Forend Release: Unlike many other single-shots that require you to unscrew a latch, many Champions feature a simple snap-on forend (the wooden piece under the barrel). You can pull it straight off with your hands to take the barrel off for cleaning.Steel and RecoilUnlike some of the later budget shotguns (which used zinc alloys), the Iver Johnson Champion used a solid steel receiver. This extra steel gives the gun a bit more weight to absorb kick. A 16-gauge Champion has a very manageable, snappy recoil that is much more comfortable to shoot than a lightweight 12 gauge.