Winchester 1897 Model 97 Take-Down 12 GA 27” Pump Shotgun Antique 1898

SOLD FOR: $4,294.00

LSB#:  LSB250720WD011

Make: Winchester

Model: 97, Take-down model

Serial Number: 61184

Year of Manufacture: 1898

Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Chamber

Action Type: Pump action with tubular magazine

Markings:  The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. / MOD.”  and patents.  

Barrel Length: 27”

Choke: Fixed:  Cylinder.

Sights / Optics: None. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with a 17-groove slide handle (consistent with early 1897s being built with the Model 1893 style foregrip), smooth semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and steel buttplate. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate.  The buttstock has been sanded.  There is a longitudinal crack aftward from the bottom screw of the pump grip.  There are scattered compression lines. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good Condition.  

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The smooth bore is dark.  There is erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.  

Overall Condition:  This shotgun retains 98% of its refinish. The balance of the finish shows general operation wear.  There is finish loss on the leading edges and muzzle.   There is some blueing-over-nicks.  There is little sign of erosion.  Some of the screw heads are tooled but serviceable.  One (from the right side of the foregrip) is missing.  The pins are unmarred. This shotgun rates as being in Very Good Overall 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, 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.

The Model 97 was chambered exclusively in 2 ¾”, as it was the first shotgun designed by Winchester that was proofed for the new smokeless powder.   

Chambered in 12 gauge, the Model 97 is known for its exposed hammer and sturdy construction. 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 trench gun variant, with its heat shield and bayonet lug, saw extensive use during both World Wars, earning a fearsome reputation for its reliability in combat and Slam-Fire capabilities that offered a unique advantage juxtaposed to other shotguns at the time.  .

This particular Model 97 has been modified to have a shorter, 27 inch barrel and an open choke.  While it is missing a screw, this should be an easy fix and the repairman would have a very collectible Model 97 from only the second year of their production.  The action bar has the very earliest iteration of the logo:  “WINCHESTER / MODEL 1897” that was present only for the first two years of production.  The Winchester Model 97 remains an iconic and highly collectible shotgun, valued for its historical significance and enduring design.  Please see our photos. -C.B.