For me, they still are the gold standard, but I'm a nostalgic old fudd. They came in several variations. I had one years ago that was called a Heavy Duck gun, although I don't remember if that was a Winchester name (50 years ago) 30 inch barrel, full choke, solid rib, and IIRC 3" magnum, it was a tank. Not only do the survivors have little bluing left but they have a lot of wear on the internals, my last one would not extract, but after a little work with a file I got it running fine. The other thing is because they are a takedown some guys try to do a barrel swap and you have the right ring size and now I'm over my head, so be careful.If I'm not mistaken the Model 12 was at one time the gold standard in pump action shotguns, as well as the WW I trench gun. Think many get caught up in the legendary status. Saw my first one 30 years ago and wanted one. Never found one who's wear and price point matched what I was willing to pay for an antique. All I know is there are many good modern shotguns on the market at a lower price point. If I saw one in a pawn shop that I wanted I would offer a lower price, and if they won't budge I'd walk away. I do think many are over priced. I have seen very few that have 90% bluing left, the ones that are out there have seen a lot of use.