Winchester Model 97 12 GA 28” Pigeon / Black Diamond Grade Pump Shotgun C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,556.00
LSB#: LSB250613SH012
Make: Winchester
Model: 1897, Take Down
Serial Number: 315057
Year of Manufacture: 1906
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Chamber
Action Type: Pump action with tubular magazine
Markings: The action bar is marked “MODEL 1897 / -WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK”. The left side of the chamber is marked “12”, “MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONNECTICUT.U.S.A. / PAT. NOV.25.90.DEC.6.92.JULY 21.96.FEB.22.98.JUNE 14.98.OCT.16.1900.” and with a WP proof. The top of the barrel is checkered to reduce glare. The right side of the barrel is marked “FULL”. The bottom of both the receiver and extension are marked “315057”. The left and right sides of the receiver are engraved with classic pigeon shooting scenes. The left and right wrists are engraved with ¾” black diamonds. The bolt is marked “Pigeon Gun”.
Barrel Length: 28”
Choke: FULL, Fixed
Sights / Optics: Brass Bead at front of barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with smooth straight grip, fluted raised comb, rounded semi-pistol grip, and solid red rubber Silvers buttpad. The LOP measures 12.½ ” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Its drop at comb is 1 ¾”, its drop at heel is 2 ¾”. There is considerable handling wear, with scratches and pressure dents throughout. The checkering is smoothed but still distinct. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate a Very Good Condition
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There does not appear to be any erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains 10% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows general operation wear and patina. There is finish loss on the leading edges and muzzle. The screw heads are sharp but show signs of use, the pins are unmarred. Overall, this shotgun rates a Good Condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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 Model 97 in Pigeon Grade, also known as the Model 1897, is a legendary 12-gauge pump-action shotgun that played a significant role in both civilian life and military history. Designed by John Browning and introduced in 1897, it was one of the first successful pump-action shotguns and became a staple for hunters, law enforcement, and soldiers alike.
Chambered in 12 gauge, the Model 97 is known for its exposed hammer and sturdy construction — the first in the WInchester line designed to handle the higher chamber pressures associated with the new smokeless powder. It features a steel receiver and a walnut stock, giving it a rugged, classic appearance. The shotgun was offered in various barrel lengths and configurations, including riot, trench, and field models, making it versatile for different purposes. The Pigeon Grade variant was a high-end model, with fancy grain walnut stocks and forearms. The black diamond grade, of which this is also an example, had special fitting and finishing of the action.
This gun comes with a copy of a letter from the Cody Firearms Records Office, verifying shipping date Silvers ad, takedown action, drop at comb and heel, and Pigeon Grade.
The Model 97’s smooth action, combined with its ability to fire six shots as fast as the user can pump and pull the trigger, made it a formidable tool in any setting. Its durability and performance have kept it in high regard, even long after production ended in 1957. The Winchester Model 97 remains an iconic and highly collectible shotgun, valued for its historical significance and enduring design. Please see our photos of this beautiful and very collectable piece of Winchester history. -C.B.
