I found a 1901 dated model '97 with a 30" barrel at a local shop for $150. It's not pitted or rusted, but the bluing is near gone, leaving a brown patina. The bore looks smooth with the exception of a few cobwebs. The stock is wobbly and is even repaired with pins. It's listed as a parts gun, and the shop owner didn't know what it would take to get it operational. When I gave it a pump, the bolt pushed rearward, cocking the hammer, but did not return on it's own. I'm new to shotguns, but have always wanted a '97 as my first one.
I've scoured Brownell's, but are parts fairly easy to find, and do you guys think $150 for a listed parts gun is worth the trouble of a rebuild?
I've scoured Brownell's, but are parts fairly easy to find, and do you guys think $150 for a listed parts gun is worth the trouble of a rebuild?
eek: )!