Winchester Model 98 Breech Loading Signal Cannon 10 GA Blank Only Post-1975
Sold For: 1,699.99
LSB#: 200715BM16
Make: Bellmore-Johnson Tool Co. under license from Winchester
Model: 98 Breech Loading Signal Cannon
Serial Number: 007056
Year of Manufacture: 1975-2019, ATF Non-Firearm
Caliber: 10 Gauge BLANK ONLY
Action Type: Breech-Loading Blank-Firing Signal/Salute Cannon
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “MFG. BY THE BELLMORE – JOHNSON TOOL CO. / HAMDEN, CT. U.S.A. – UNDER LICENSE FROM – / _WINCHESTER_ DIV., OLIN CORP.” and with the serial number. The top is marked “USE 10 GA. BLANK ONLY”. Each side of the carriage has “W.R.A.Co / TRADE MARK / MADE IN U.S.A.” cast into the outside.
Barrel Length: 12″
Approximate Overall Dimensions, Assembled: W: 8″, H: 8″, L: 16″
Sights / Optics: None.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The gun is mounted on a cast iron carriage with metal wheels. The carriage shows minor wear with only a few light marks, most notable on the wheels. The markings on the carriage are clear. Overall, the carriage is in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is generally bright with some scattered minor oxidation.
Overall Condition: This gun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are only a few scattered minor marks and light storage wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this cannon is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: There is nothing to indicate that this cannon will not function properly. We did not fire this gun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This gun comes with the carriage mount as described, the cannon is housed in a Winchester Breech Loading Cannon crate with lid. A total of 550 Delta-X Corp 10 Gauge Black Powder blank shells are included, two loose 25-round boxes and one sealed 500-round case. The crate shows scattered storage wear and some spots of discoloration, in about Very Good-plus condition. The case of blanks shows storage wear, but nothing to indicate damage to the shells.
Our Assessment: Originally offered in Winchester’s 1903 catalog, the 98 Breech Loading Signal Cannon is a 10 Gauge blank-firing cannon intended for signaling and saluting celebrations such as the 4th of July as well as good clean fun firing off black powder blank shells. Produced for more than a century, production was licensed to the Bellmore Johnson Company just a few miles from the original Winchester factory in 1975. This is a Bellmore Johnson produced example, and it is in great condition. It comes with its original packing crate as well as a whopping 550 black powder blank shells from Delta-X Corp. This will be a great addition to any Winchester collection as well as being a fun piece to take out to the range. Please see our photos and good luck!
CA Legal or CA Private Party Transferable: This blank-firing only cannon CAN be transferred in California.
