winchester model 1897

B

beaver

New member
I recently came into possesion of a winchester 1897 12 guage its in pretty rough shape but am curious about how to tell how old it is i looked at the serial number and dated to the 30's but some one else looked and dated it at the turn of the century if any one knows i would appreciate some info on how to tell the difference. I was also advised that these guns are in high demand for cowboy action shooters.
 
I was also advised that these guns are in high demand for cowboy action shooters.
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They are but they want guns in good shape in excellent working condition because of the number of rounds they run through them every month.
 
the gun has a serial number of 812xx which according to the chart shows the gun was made in 1900 would this make the gun worth more or not. If not oh well it will still look neat hanging on a wall. Also when i say it's in rough shape i was talking about cosmetically as it seems to function fine although i have not fired it yet.
 
Have a gunsmith check it out .The well worn ones have a tendency to fire even with the safety ON !
 
I like them.There are a whole lot of parts in them.Yours may well have crud in it from 100 years ago.I recommend you do not boldly tear into it.You have to know what you are doing.
There may be some AGI videos or books available.
Probably your best bet is to attend a few cowboy shoots and talk to the folks who have '97's to find out who cares for them.You may get lucky.
 
Also when i say it's in rough shape i was talking about cosmetically
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Cosmetics are everything to a collector. Hard to say without seeing it but I'd say you could get from 3-500 for it if it functions well.
 
I may do that not really looking to sell it, although if the right deal came along who knows what would happen. I would not be to upset to leave it hanging on the wall in my den though.
 
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