questions about a winchester 1897

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bigrig61821

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I just purchased a Winchester 1897 shotgun I know nothing about them or this gun other than that it was listed as a parts gun serial number 8866# from what I can tell it was made in 1900. Id like to know what to look for regarding safe unsafe operation possible value of this firearm as it appears unmolested and original. It has a 26" bbl and is in 12ga. Thanks.
 
Bigrig

You came to the right place. Plenty of people here are very knowledgeable. (I am no help at all on shotguns.)

Welcome to the forum.
 
further review of pic

Based on just this one pic I'm gathering that it's missing the trigger and screws stops and pins in the receiver the wood looked good on it. The carrier and bolt are in it and I picked it up for $10 at an auction I have no clue what the value is or could be. I certainly enjoy projects and would prefer to restore it rather than part it out or hang it on a wall. From the picture and other info given can it be determined if this is a takedown model or solid frame. Thanks again
 

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If you don't have a gunsmith, contact your local cowboy action club and ask for a recommendation. We use '97s in cowboy so the 'smiths that work on cowboy guns will know how to get it running.
 
Yeah I was at a gun auction and won 4 firearms for less than $50.00 total I get to pick them all up Thursday. The FFL that is doing the transfer may be able to give me some more insight on potential shootability of the 97. I've already been looking on ebay for parts that go to the receiver that appear to be missing. Provided there aren't any safety concerns such as barrel bulges or cracks in key parts I plan to restore it and hang onto it for a while. When it comes to restoring this type of firearm is it one that should just be cleaned and oiled or is a full striping & finish and rebluing acceptable.
 
With most collectible firearms you will negatively affect the value by refinishing it.

The '97 is not that complicated to strip down to its component parts for a good inspection and cleaning.
 
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