Winchester Model 1897 12 Ga 2 ¾” 30” Solid Frame Pump Shotgun 1898 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,325.00
LSB#: LSB260124XX601
Make: Winchester
Model: Model 1897
Serial Number: 51202
Year of Manufacture: 1898 / Antique
Gauge: 12 Ga. 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Pump Action Shotgun, Tube Fed, Exposed Hammer
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A PAT. NOV. 25. 1890. DEC. 6. 1892. JULY 21. 1896.” followed by “12”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The action bar is marked “WINCHESTER / MODEL 1897”. The carrier is marked “PAT APPLIED FOR”.
Barrel Length: 30″
Choke: Fixed Modified
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bead set on the muzzle.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a 17 groove slide handle (with the retaining screw found on early model 97s), rounded semi-pistol grip, straight comb and smooth steel buttplate. The buttstock has many nicks, scuffs and scratches. There is a crack on the left side of the pump grip around the screw. The LOP measures 12 7/8 ” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is scattered erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 40% of its metal finish. There is thinning and finish loss on the leading edges. Much of the metal has thinned and taken to a mottled patina. There are some minor nicks, scuffs and small scratches throughout. Most of the balance has been lost to normal operational wear. There is infrequent minor oxidation and surface erosion, mostly on the receiver. The screwheads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates a Good 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: This shotgun comes with its factory letter which confirms a manufacture date of 1898, C series, and 30 inch barrel.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1897 is one of the most important pump action shotguns ever produced, designed by John Browning and introduced at the close of the nineteenth century as an evolution of the earlier Model 1893. This example, manufactured in 1898, comes from the earliest years of production and features the solid frame configuration with exposed hammer, embodying the transitional period of repeating shotgun development. The Model 1897 would go on to see widespread use in both civilian and military roles, gaining particular fame during the First World War, but examples from this early production era reflect its roots as a robust sporting and utility shotgun for the American market. The included factory letter further confirms its configuration and adds to its documented history.
Chambered in 12 gauge with a 30 inch barrel and fixed Modified choke, this example retains approximately 40 percent of its original finish with widespread thinning, patina, and light oxidation consistent with long service. The bore is bright with scattered erosion, rating 6 out of 10. The walnut stock set shows honest handling wear with a crack present in the slide handle, while retaining its early pattern features including the 17 groove forearm. The action functions properly and reflects the smooth operation that made the Model 1897 a lasting success. With its documented 1898 manufacture, early production features, and enduring Browning design, this shotgun represents a historically significant example of one of America’s most iconic pump action firearms. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! – L.S.