Winchester Model 97 1897 12 Ga 28″ MOD CHOKE Pump Auction Shotgun, MFD 1936
SOLD FOR: $1075
LSB#: 210619RF26
Make: Winchester
Model: 97
Serial Number: 851388
Year of Manufacture: 1936
Gauge: 12 Ga.
Action Type: Pump Action shotgun, Tube Fed, Exposed Hammer
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MODEL 97-WINCHESTER-12 GA. / -TRADE MARK- / MOD”. The right side of the barrel is marked “-MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN.-” and with patent dates beneath. The top of the barrel is marked with a proof mark, as is the top of the frame. The bottom of the barrel extension is marked “851388”. The bottom of the receiver is marked “E / 851388”.
Barrel Length: 28”
Choke: “MOD”
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a silver colored bead at the muzzle.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are uncut and original. The wood still shows the original finish, which has only a few scratches and stuffs and rates about 70%. The wood to metal fit is great and there is only light darkening of the finish where there is contact with the metal. The LOP measures 12 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the original hard rubber butt plate, which has only light wear and nearly perfect fit. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright but in need for a more thorough cleaning. There is only no erosion.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. As is commonly seen on Winchesters of this vintage, the finish is just starting to flake and turn brown on parts like the barrel assembly, tube hanger and trigger guard. There is minor edge wear and surface scuffing elsewhere, but most finish on this shotgun is still retained and we see no pitting. There is some marring to the edge of the frame from reassembly with the slide arm a bit extended, but nothing obtrusive. The shotgun has the appearance of a barely used and loved gun. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly. We have not fired 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 has served millions of Americans as the go-to shotgun for the home, trench, field or cowboy shooting gun cart. It is one of the most produced American shotguns, and for good reason. The action is strong and reliable, designed by John Moses Browning, it takes down easily, yet functions simply and indefinitely.
This is a collector grade shotgun, still sitting exactly how it shipped from the factory (uncut and no pad added). Finding field grade guns like this that haven’t been abused after almost 90 years are harder and harder to find. In addition, if you have been watching the market for 97’s, you know that sharp and untouched guns like this are hot and only getting hotter.