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We have had a Model 97 #192294 12 gauge join our family. I am a rifle person, so know little about this shotgun.
Do we need to be concerned about cartridge length? Are 2 3/4" cases safe to use in this gun?
What cautions regarding using this shotgun am I unaware of?
The serial number tells me that it is a Model "1897" (and should be marked as such on the slide bar) that was manufactured in December of 1902. It should have a "C" stamped above the serial number on the receiver frame.
All Model 1897 12-ga shotguns were chambered for a 2-3/4" shell. Do not shoot magnum, or steel shot loaded shells in it.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Thank you, Bert.
I’ve been reading around other forums–many folks are saying that the chambers should be reamed and the forcing cons opened in these old guns. Pressure problems because the plastic shells open longer than the older paper roll crimps.
Other people say that this is a wives-tale, and that the guns are safe to shoot modern 2 3/4 ammunition.
Seems to mirror the filler/no filler discussions for a .38-55!
I shoot modern 2-3/4" shells in all of my Model 1897 shotguns with no issues or problems.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
FromTheWoods said
We have had a Model 97 #192294 12 gauge join our family. I am a rifle person, so know little about this shotgun.Do we need to be concerned about cartridge length? Are 2 3/4″ cases safe to use in this gun?
What cautions regarding using this shotgun am I unaware of?
Mike,
The Model 1897 was specifically designed for 2-3/4″ 12 Ga shells loaded with smokeless powder. That stated, I would avoid shooting and “Magnum” strength shells or any loaded with Steel shot. Standard slug loads or Buck Shot loads are safe to shoot in it.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Hi, Bert
Since you shot the M1897 alot i have some questions to see if these are safe
Do you think this type of ammo would be safe to shoot out of the shotgun? its ICC Ammo 12g 2 3/4 Breaching Slug (is what the box said)
https://www.iccammo.com/products/12-ga-325-gr-frangible-breaching-slug-5-round-box
What Ammo do you recommend(or use) when using the m1897
and do you believe that the Remington 2 3/4 ShurtShot HVY. Dove 3 1/4- 1 1/8 – 8 would be safe to shoot also?
https://www.academy.com/p/remington-shurshot-heavy-dove-12-gauge-8-shotshells-25-rounds
Thank you for your time -Jacob
Jacob said
Hi, BertSince you shot the M1897 alot i have some questions to see if these are safe
Do you think this type of ammo would be safe to shoot out of the shotgun? its ICC Ammo 12g 2 3/4 Breaching Slug (is what the box said)
https://www.iccammo.com/products/12-ga-325-gr-frangible-breaching-slug-5-round-box
What Ammo do you recommend(or use) when using the m1897
and do you believe that the Remington 2 3/4 ShurtShot HVY. Dove 3 1/4- 1 1/8 – 8 would be safe to shoot also?
https://www.academy.com/p/remington-shurshot-heavy-dove-12-gauge-8-shotshells-25-rounds
Thank you for your time -Jacob
I do not know what a “Frangible Breaching Slug” load is, or what pressure it is loaded to. Therefore, I would urge you to be cautious.
The Remington Heavy Dove load is perfectly fine as long as your Model 1897 is in safe shooting condition.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
November 7, 2015
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Breaching slugs are used by tactical teams to defeat latches and hinges on doors to facilitate entry. When fired it breaks into small fragments that appear to be ceramic. I’m not aware of the velocity or dram equivalent but I can assure you they are very loud when fired in a short barreled riot gun. Not sure I’d want to fire them in a full choke.
Mike
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