Winchester Model 1897 Takedown Field Grade 12 Gauge Pump-Action, External Hammer, 20 Inch Cut Barrel (1908)
This 1908 Winchester Model 1897 Takedown Field Grade is a classic external-hammer, bottom-loading and right-side-ejecting 12 gauge pump with a period-correct takedown system and matching serial numbers at the joint. It is slam-fire capable due to its no-disconnector design. The barrel was cut to 20 inches from its original field length yet retains the factory "FULL" stamp, and the front bead is absent. Walnut furniture, steel construction, and clear model markings on the slide bar round out a configuration that highlights the defining features of a well-used, functional 1897.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: Very little to no original bluing remains; the metal shows a brown patina with some silvery white wear spots. There are light pitting or pepper spots on the receiver and barrel, with no deep structural damage observed. The wood displays significant dings and scratches.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1897 Takedown Field Grade 12 gauge shotgun as described
The 1897’s takedown configuration features matching serial numbers on the joint, and a standalone "D" appears between the duplicate serial stampings. The action is the classic external-hammer pump with no disconnector, allowing slam-fire operation, and uses bottom loading and right-side ejection. Stated capacity is 5+1.
The barrel was cut to 20 inches from the original field length. It remains stamped "FULL," and the front bead is removed/absent. No front or rear sights are present.
Construction includes a steel receiver and barrel with a blued finish that has largely worn to a brown/gray patina, paired with a walnut pistol-grip stock and a metal buttplate. The slide handle is the ribbed walnut pattern. Length of pull measures 13.5 inches.
Markings include the slide bar legend "MODEL 1897 - WINCHESTER - TRADE MARK." Country of origin is the USA, and the year of manufacture is 1908.