j.c. higgins shotgun

Question
I have acquired a J.C. Higgins 12ga shotgun from my step-fathers side of the family. I know it was made for Sears and Roebuck co. but I do not know when. The only markings on the shotgun is J.C. Higgins model 583.17 Sears and Roebuck co. I have tried looking up the model number on various websites and none were able to tell me anything about it because that model number wasn't listed. any information you can give me concerning this firearm would be greatly appreciated (estimated date of manufacture, name of manufacturer, value if known but not necessary and if it is a sought after collectors type shotgun.) Thanks for any and all help you can give me.

Answer
Hello Tim.
 Your J.C. Higgins Model 583.17 bolt-action shotgun was manufactured by High Standard as the Model 10. This was sometime from 1946-1958. Values range from $50-$100. J.C.Higgins was the name Sears chose for their long guns during these years. This makes it a ' store brand ' firearm and less appealing to collectors.
 There is some concern as to the safety of it's use. In the American Rifleman Magazine, April 1998 page 24, there is a ' DO NOT USE ' warning issued by Sears Roebuck & Company. The statement warns of a possible ' failure of the bolt locking lugs ' which could cause the bolt to fly backwards from the receiver. There was a recall at that time, however, I do not know if it is still in effect. This is the phone number given in the article; 800-817-9165.
 With the value being low and the danger being high, I would like you to consider finding a place for it on the wall.
 I hope this helps answer your question and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage