Winchester Model 1897 Solid Frame 12 Ga 20” Pump Riot Shotgun C&R 1924
SOLD FOR: $1,375.00
LSB#: LSB250613SH010
Make: Winchester
Model: 1897, Solid Frame
Serial Number: 735720
Year of Manufacture: 1924
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Chamber
Action Type: Pump action with tubular magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “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.DEC.25.06.JULY 5.10. / 12 GA.” and “CYL.”. The top of the barrel and the receiver are marked with a WP proof. The bottom of the receiver is marked “735720”. The action bar is marked “MODEL 1897 / —WINCHESTER — / TRADEMARKREG.U.S.PAT.OFF.&FGN.”
Barrel Length: 20”
Choke: CYLINDER, Fixed
Sights / Optics: Metallic Bead
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with an 18 groove slide handle, smooth semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and hard rubber Winchester buttplate. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There is handling wear, with scratches and pressure dents. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate a Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion apparent. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains 80% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows general operational wear. There is finish loss on the leading edges and muzzle. Much of the metal shows faint corrosion. The bolt shows some wear. The screw heads are sharp but show signs of use, the pins are unmarred. Overall, this shotgun rates a Very 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, also known as the Model 1897, is a legendary 12-gauge pump-action shotgun that played a significant role in both civilian and military history. A pump action shotgun with an exposed hammer and a tube magazine, it was designed by John Browning and was an evolution of the Model 1893. It was introduced in 1897 and was designed to handle the higher chamber pressures of the new smokeless powder. It was one of the first successful pump-action shotguns and became a staple for hunters, law enforcement, and the military.
Chambered in both 12 and 16 gauge, the Model 97 is distinguishable from the later (and equally ubiquitous) Model 12 by its exposed hammer. 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 very versatile. This particular model was a riot gun which was widely used by law enforcement, prison guards, and (in limited use) by the military. No military orders were signed in the 1920s, however.
Initially, Winchester built only solid frame models like this one. In 1898, they began making the takedown model, which became much more common. The solid frame is most apparent for lacking a barrel band that circles the magazine tube.
The Model 1897’s durability and performance have kept it in high regard long after its 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. – C.B.
