Winchester Model 1897 Riot Gun 12 Gauge – Salt Lake City Police Marked, 20" Barrel, 5+1 Slam-Fire Pump
This Winchester Model 1897 Riot Gun stands out for its documented Salt Lake City Police markings and wartime 1942–1943 production. Built on John Browning’s legendary 1897 design, it features a 20-inch cylinder-bore barrel, 5+1 capacity, and the original slam-fire trigger system. Matching barrel and receiver numbers, forged-steel construction, and walnut furniture make this a collectible police shotgun with concrete historical provenance.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – clean, shiny bore with minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: A permanently attached barrel mount prevents takedown and has produced light external blemishes near the joint.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1897 Riot Gun 12 Gauge
- Attached barrel mount
Produced in 1943 during WWII, this riot-length Model 1897 was issued to the Salt Lake City Police Department and still carries the department roll mark. The 20-inch barrel and cylinder choke deliver the wide pattern preferred for urban law-enforcement work of the era.
The shotgun retains its original slam-fire capability, allowing continuous fire by holding the trigger while cycling the action—an attribute highly valued by collectors and historians alike.
Matching serial numbers on the barrel and receiver confirm factory pairing, while the forged-steel receiver and barrel maintain the rugged build that made the 1897 a staple in military and police service.
Walnut furniture, including a semi-pistol-grip stock with a 14-inch length of pull and corn-cob grooved forend, remains intact with only honest handling marks. The front brass bead sight is present and functional.