Winchester1897 Model 97 Take-Down 12GA 20” Trench-style Pump-Action Shotgun
SOLD FOR: $1,075.00
LSB#: LSB250625MP001
Make: Winchester
Model: 1897, Takedown
Serial Number: 521817
Year of Manufacture: 1911
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Chamber
Action Type: Pump action with tubular magazine
Markings: The action bar is marked “MODEL 1897 / -WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK”. The left side of the chamber is marked “FULL”. The top 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.” and with a WP proof. The bottom of both the receiver and barrel extension are marked “521817”.
Barrel Length: 20”
Choke: Fixed: Cylinder. This barrel has been modified to a shorter barrel length and a heat shield has been added.
Sights / Optics: Brass Bead at front of barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with smooth straight grip, fluted raised comb, rounded semi-pistol grip, and black hard rubber buttplate. The LOP measures 13 ¾ ” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There is considerable handling wear, with scratches and pressure dents throughout. The checkering is smoothed but still distinct. There are chips missing from pistol grip and the left side of the bottom tang. Overall, the stocks rate a Good Condition
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright but there are spots of corrosion therein. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains 40% of its finish. The balance of the finish shows general operation wear and fading. There is fading on the receiver, operational wear on the mag tube, and hints of corrosion scattered about the metal surfaces. There is finish loss on the leading edges and muzzle. The screw heads are heavily tooled but still serviceable, 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 life and military history. Designed by John Browning and introduced in 1897, it was one of the first successful pump-action shotguns and became a staple for hunters, law enforcement, and soldiers alike.
Chambered in 12 gauge, the Model 97 is known for its exposed hammer and sturdy construction — the first in the WInchester line designed to handle the higher chamber pressures associated with the new smokeless powder. 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 versatile for different purposes. This particular Model 97 has been modified to appear to be a trench gun, with a handguard, shorter barrel, bayonet attachment, and sling swivels.
The Model 97’s smooth action, combined with its ability to fire six shots as fast as the user can pump and pull the trigger, made it a formidable tool in any setting. Its durability and performance have kept it in high regard, even long after 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 of this beautiful and very collectable piece of Winchester history. -C.B.
