Dakota Arms Model 97 Hunter .270 Win. 24″ Bolt Action Rifle & Scope Rings
SOLD FOR: $1,425.00
LSB#: LSB260606WG006
Make: Dakota Arms
Model: 97 Hunter
Serial Number: H0104
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .270 Winchester
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Blind Magazine.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “270 WIN”. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number and “DAKOTA ARMS / 97 / STURGIS, SD”. The top of the receiver is marked “HUNTER”.
Barrel Length: 24″
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The top of the receiver is mounted with a two-piece base and 30mm rings for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece composite stock, with a semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, black rubber Dakota Arms buttpad, and sling studs front and rear. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock shows light wear, with a few light scratches and rub wear throughout. The buttpad is missing its top screw, so the top of the buttpad is separating from the stock. The stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. The barrel is free-floating all the way to the action. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear on the bolt. Otherwise, the matte bluing is deep, dark, and intact throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition, mainly due to the condition of the stock & buttpad.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. The trigger has a light, crisp, and clean break. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the scope rings as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Dakota Arms Model 97 Hunter is a premium American-made bolt-action sporting rifle built around a streamlined action and intended to offer the accuracy and refinement associated with Dakota Arms in a lighter, more practical hunting configuration. Chambered in .270 Winchester with a 24″ barrel, free-floated composite stock, blind internal magazine, and optics-ready receiver, this rifle is well suited for deer, antelope, elk, and other medium to large game. The .270 Winchester remains one of the classic North American hunting cartridges, offering a useful balance of flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and dependable field performance.
This rifle is in Very Good condition overall, retaining about 98% of its original matte blue finish with only light operational wear on the bolt. The composite stock shows scattered light scratches and rub wear but remains free of chips or cracks and fits tightly to the barreled action. The upper buttpad screw is missing, causing the top of the pad to separate slightly from the stock, which is the primary condition issue. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating 10/10, while the action and safety function correctly and the trigger has a light, crisp break. The rifle also includes a two-piece scope base and 30mm rings. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.