Model 97 odd branding|General Discussions & Questions|Forum|Winchester Collector

Bob Hood said
A friend recently came into a Model 97 solid frame which has no Winchester markings.  Serial # 67xxx indicates an 1899 date and the barrel is stamped only, “WESTERN” with a partial underline with a hook.  Also, “12GA – C”
Tried to load a photo, but no luck…
Anyone familiar with this?  A contract piece, or maybe for export???
Thanks,Bob 
  

The barrel is evidently not original to the gun.  On the early production Model 1897 shotguns, the Model designation was marked on the slide bar only, and it should look like this;

This is what the barrel marking should look like on s/n 67000;

Bert

Bob Hood said
Thanks, Bert.  I had not thought about a barrel swap – now the question arises; from what/where?  What barrel would swap out with the 97?  I’ll pass this along.  
Best wishes to all,
B
  

I believe that Ithaca manufactured a line of shotguns with the “WESTERN” moniker marked on the barrels.

Bert