Winchester Model 1897 ’97 M97 Takedown 30” 12 GA Pump Shotgun, 1911 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,025.00
LSB#: LSB250518JG006
Make: Winchester
Model: 1897
Serial Number: 499015
Year of Manufacture: 1911
Caliber: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾”
Action Type: Pump Action Shotgun, Tubular Magazine, Takedown, Exposed Hammer
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A.” with patent dates and “12 GA.”, the left is marked “FULL”. The top-rear of the barrel is marked “WP” in oval, found again on the top-front of the receiver to the left of the sighting groove. The bottom of the receiver at the front is marked with the serial number under “E”, the barrel extension is also marked with the serial number. The action bar is marked “MODEL 1897 / -WINCHESTER- / TRADE MARK REG.IN U.S.PAT.OFF.”.
Barrel Length: 30”
Choke: Fixed Full Choke
Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead in a base at the muzzle. The receiver has a shallow groove at the front which serves as a sighting plane.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with grooved slide-handle, semi-pistol grip, straight comb and checkered black hard rubber Winchester buttplate. The stocks have some scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches, more in the buttstock than the slide handle.There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate.The plate has some light wear. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is some faint erosion at the midlength. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its current metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There are a few notable shallow dings on the magtube as well as two small holes drilled just in front of the pump grip. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Fine condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. This shotgun will slam-fire as designed. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Winchester 1897 was designed by the famed John M. Browning and quickly became one of the most popular shotguns in the world, serving the United states military in both World Wars and popular with law enforcement agencies across the country. It should come as no surprise then, that it was also popular on the civilian market with many field guns produced. This example was produced in 1911 and has been refinished so it looks great for its age. The barrel is 30” with a FULL choke. Despite its honest aging, it appears to have only seen some limited use and this neat old Winchester will add nicely to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! -L.S.
