Phil,

The first thing I check is the serial number, and the frame type (WW I Riot and Trench Guns were all solid frame guns… no Take Downs).  The next thing I look for is the choke marking stamped on the barrel.  Most of the long barreled guns had a “FULL” or a “MOD” choke.  All original 20-inch barrels were “CYL”.  The next item to inspect is the placement of the front bead sight.  If a standard gun has been converted to a Trench gun, remove the heat shield and inspect the three grooves on the bottom of the barrel.  If they are raw (in the white), and not cleanly milled, they were added after the fact. 

Bert

Phil said
Thanks Bert.

Here are some barrel and site pictures of a solid frame 1897 manufactured in 1914 that is supposed to be a riot gun. From the bolt to end of barrel measures 20 1/8”. From end of barrel to the center of the site bead measures 3/16”. The barrel is marked CYL.

Phil

  

Phil,

The barrel has been cut down from a longer length.  Winchester installed the front bead exactly .500″ from the muzzle to the center of the bead.  The pictures you posted clearly show that “Bubba” botched it on his first attempt.

Bert

Phil,

I have found authentic Riot & Trench guns with barrels as long as 21-inches.  That stated, the accepted length is 20-inches.  The front bead shank is visible on an original, but it is exactly .50″ inch from the muzzle face.

Bert