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January 12, 2024
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There is a very nice condition early “E” series Model 1897 (Standard Field grade: SN#5xxxxx) for sale at auction but the listing notes the Full choke barrel length is 26.5 inches and is missing the front bead. Reviewing the information provided on this forum and in other authoritative sources, I have to conclude the barrel was shortened, likely down from the standard 30″ length. Is there any other likely/possible explanation?
April 15, 2005
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Peter Brigham said
There is a very nice condition early “E” series Model 1897 (Standard Field grade: SN#5xxxxx) for sale at auction but the listing notes the Full choke barrel length is 26.5 inches and is missing the front bead. Reviewing the information provided on this forum and in other authoritative sources, I have to conclude the barrel was shortened, likely down from the standard 30″ length. Is there any other likely/possible explanation?
Peter,
99.9% likely the barrel was cut down. Barrel length is wrong and the missing bead sight strongly suggest that somebody chopped the barrel short.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
January 12, 2024
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Bert,
Roger, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Your previous guidance here on the Forum was very helpful to me in flagging this one. It’s too bad, though, as it looks like a beautiful, relatively early gun otherwise.
April 15, 2005
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Peter Brigham said
Bert,Roger, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Your previous guidance here on the Forum was very helpful to me in flagging this one. It’s too bad, though, as it looks like a beautiful, relatively early gun otherwise.
You are welcome.
If the gun sells at a reasonable price (less than $500), it would be a worth having it shortened to 20-inches and a new bead properly installed, making it a near clone to a factory Riot Gun.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
November 7, 2015
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Peter Brigham said
Bert,Roger, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Your previous guidance here on the Forum was very helpful to me in flagging this one. It’s too bad, though, as it looks like a beautiful, relatively early gun otherwise.
Roger-
Easy way to tell if you don’t have a handy fixed choke gauge in your pocket is that a cut-off 12 ga barrel will measure very close to .729” and a full choke at least .035” and possibly as much as .044” constriction. I don’t have a full choked 1897 on the premises to measure. Another way to tell is to step out to a Trap field and break a clay bird. A full choke will powder the bird. A cylinder choke will break it into 8-12 visible pieces. If the barrel was shortened you will have a fine shotgun suitable for quail or skeet. A full choke will be fine for trap, absolutely powders birds of you do your part. If you’re looking for a collectible gun sit back and let this one go by. Your gun will be along shortly.
Mike
January 12, 2024
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Bert H. said
Peter Brigham said
Bert,
Roger, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Your previous guidance here on the Forum was very helpful to me in flagging this one. It’s too bad, though, as it looks like a beautiful, relatively early gun otherwise.
You are welcome.
If the gun sells at a reasonable price (less than $500), it would be a worth having it shortened to 20-inches and a new bead properly installed, making it a near clone to a factory Riot Gun.
Bert
Bert,
That is an intriguing proposition. The two brothers who ran a great small local gunshop near me and were excellent gunsmiths are, sadly, now gone. Is there anyone you might recommend for such work (as you suggest)?
January 12, 2024
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TXGunNut said
Peter Brigham said
Bert,
Roger, thank you for confirming my suspicions. Your previous guidance here on the Forum was very helpful to me in flagging this one. It’s too bad, though, as it looks like a beautiful, relatively early gun otherwise.
Roger-
Easy way to tell if you don’t have a handy fixed choke gauge in your pocket is that a cut-off 12 ga barrel will measure very close to .729” and a full choke at least .035” and possibly as much as .044” constriction. I don’t have a full choked 1897 on the premises to measure. Another way to tell is to step out to a Trap field and break a clay bird. A full choke will powder the bird. A cylinder choke will break it into 8-12 visible pieces. If the barrel was shortened you will have a fine shotgun suitable for quail or skeet. A full choke will be fine for trap, absolutely powders birds of you do your part. If you’re looking for a collectible gun sit back and let this one go by. Your gun will be along shortly.
Mike
Mike,
Thank you for the voice of experience–much appreciated!
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