The Model 1897 was a superior slide-action shotgun designed for the new smokeless powder. Winchester made over one million 1897s, with production from 1897 to 1957. Replacing the Model 1893, the 1897 was offered in 12 gauge with a 30” barrel until 1899 in solid frame or takedown. The new 16 gauge was introduced in 1900 with a 28" barrel in takedown only.
The Model 1897 was offered in a variety of grades: standard field; fancy; standard trap; special trap; pigeon; tournament; brush; riot and trench gun. The 20” barrel riot and trench guns were especially desirable for law enforcement and military use. The law enforcement riot and trench guns may have police unit markings. The military riot and trench guns will have “U.S” and flaming bomb markings. Trench guns differed from riot guns in that they have a bayonet stud attachment and barrel handguard. All trench gun and a few riot guns were equipped with sling swivels. The trench gun was first offered in solid frame only, then later in takedown.
The Winchester Model 1897 became the most popular outside-hammer, slide-action in history. Special features include fancy checkered walnut stocks and engraving. According to a 1916 catalogue, the plain-finish example sold for $25, while an engraved receiver with checkered and finer wood sold for $100.
Original Winchester factory records are available for this model from the Cody Firearms Museum in Cody, Wyoming, from serial number 1 thru 377999.
