The 1897 is a fine looking, historical firearm, but for a 'shooter' go with a modern shotgun. Modern copies of the 1897 should be fine but I would stay away from the originals as they may not be able to handle modern loads.
What year was my Winchester Model 97 made?
The model 97 was produced from 1897 until 1957, during that time there were over 1 million weapons produced.
Is the 1897 a good shotgun?
However, the legend of the Model 1897 "Trench Gun" is more based on theoretical capability than its actual service. Any gun made 118 years ago is going to show wear and tear, but the '97 remains a solid and reliable shotgun even today.
Can you slam fire a Winchester 97?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI5IMS-BRxk
Is the Winchester Model 1897 still used?
The Model 1897 was superseded by the Winchester Model 1912. However, the gun can still be found today in regular use.
Can you shoot modern ammo in a 1897 shotgun?
38-55! I shoot modern 2-3/4" shells in all of my Model 1897 shotguns with no issues or problems.Oct 7, 2013
Is Winchester 1897 a dual action?
Like most early pump shotguns the '97 had a single action bar as opposed to the dual action bars found on more modern designs. The gun came in fixed and takedown models. The longer barrel version was used by farmers and hunters, while the riot guns were used by both lawmen and gangsters alike.
When was my Winchester Model 97 made?
The Winchester Model 1897 was in production from 1897 until 1957. It was in this time frame that the "modern" hammerless designs became common, like the Winchester Model 1912 and the Remington 870. The Model 1897 was superseded by the Winchester Model 1912. However, the gun can still be found today in regular use.
Where is the serial number on a Winchester Model 97?
Please provide the complete serial number. Additionally, look for the 2-digit year number stamped on the bottom of the barrel near the receiver… it will be marked “41” or “42” (depending on what the serial number on your Model 97 actually is). The heat shield should be the 6-row style.
Is it illegal to have a slam fire shotgun?
Because there is no reason for them to be illegal. A shotgun that is designed to fire open breach, fires essentially the same rate as any other shotgun.
Do all Model 12s slam fire?
The Model 12 will fire if you depress the trigger while chambering a round. This is a design feature, not a malfunction. The Winchester Model 97 and Model 12 both could slam fire. I have a Model 12 in 16ga., and it was one of the first things I tried with it.