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August 25, 2006
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- What is the proper method of measuring the barrel length on a take-down M97?
- Also, the serial numbers on my gun appear to match, but I have a question. The serial number on the receiver has a “C” over it, but the serial number on the barrel does not. Does that signify something?
TIA,
Tom
April 15, 2005
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Tom,
The proper method is the same wether it is a solid frame or a Take Down … close the action (empty chamber), then run a rod down the bore unitl it bottoms out on the bolt face. Mark & measure the rod where it exits the bore.
In answer to your second question, the letters “C”, “D”, and “E” were used on the receiver frame to designate which series they were. The various series used different parts and assembly steps. The barrel assemblies remained unchanged, thus they did not need to be marked.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
August 25, 2006
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Thanks, Bert — much appreciated.
Since we’re on a roll, I’ll ask one more.
Suppose I was an avid trapshooter between the wars, and “shot out” my takedown M97 barrel. If I returned the whole gun to Winchester for a replacement barrel to be fitted, would the factory number the new barrel to match the receiver I sent them?
I’m asking because of two things: the bore of my gun seems practically brand new, and the barrel wall at the muzzle seems pretty thick to me. Although the finish on the barrel seems to be consistent with the finish on the receiver, I have always wondered if the barrel might be a replacement.
Serial number range is C 167300 (~1902?).
Thanks again,
Tom
August 25, 2006
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PS Barrel is 30″ full-choke. This is a Black Diamond trap model.
April 15, 2005
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Tom,
It is the take down extension that has the serial number on it versus the barrel itself. If the gun was sent back (say after 30-years), it would have the new barrel fitted to take down extension and receiver, and then sent back. However, the factory markings on the barrel would be different than the original barrel. Additionally, the replacement barrel would have a 2-digit year number marked on the bottom side. If you can post (or send me) a clear picture showing the roll marked information on the barrel, I can tell you if it is the original barrel.
Yes, it is a 1902 production gun.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
August 25, 2006
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Thanks – I have a picture taken, but Photobucket is being uncooperative. Will try again later.
Thanks,
Tom
November 7, 2015
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Stay after it with the pics Tom, I’d love to see your old 1897.
August 25, 2006
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April 15, 2005
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tom in pittsburgh said
Still struggling with posting a photo.Please see if this link will work:
“>Barrel Markings
Thanks.
It worked, and the markings on that barrel are correct for an original 1902 vintage Model 1897.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
August 25, 2006
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Thanks, Bert – that’s good to know.
Here’s another question: the forearm on my c. 1902 M97 Trap gun is fastened by three screws, but I have seen later models where no forearm screws are visible. About when did the change take place?
TXGunNut: will work on posting some images.
Thanks,
Tom
April 15, 2005
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tom in pittsburgh said
Thanks, Bert – that’s good to know.Here’s another question: the forearm on my c. 1902 M97 Trap gun is fastened by three screws, but I have seen later models where no forearm screws are visible. About when did the change take place?
TXGunNut: will work on posting some images.
Thanks,
Tom
Tom,
Winchester discontinued the 3-screw slide handle configuration in June of 1904, circa serial number 249000. That manufacturing change was co-incident with the change from the “C” series to the “D” series Model 1897s. At the same time, Winchester also change the slide bar marking.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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