Model 97 Hammer Malfunction|Winchester Shotguns|Forum|Winchester Collector

Hello, I just took possession of a really nice 97 in 16 gauge off Gunbroker. The gun is in super condition and was built in 1904. I have previously posted on this gun asking about it’s “C” designation and learned a lot about the letter designations in 97 serial numbers. Anyway, in checking this gun over I discovered a problem with the hammer falling to half-cock when the action is worked. On the forward stroke the hammer comes to a rest at the half-cock position. At first I thought it was random, but after doing it several times I notice that if I run the action “vigorously” the hammer stays back in the full-cock position, but if I rack the slide slowly or even moderately fast the hammer comes forward. At no time does the hammer come down all the way onto the firing pin. Also at no time was my finger on the trigger. This is obviously disconcerting.

Is there any way this was an idiosyncrasy of the “C”: model guns, like maybe some type of a misguided safety feature? Or does my gun need a trip to the gunsmith? I’m guessing it’s the latter, but I wanted to check with 97 experts here first. (Cannot upload photos).

Thank you,

Cliff

Seattle