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August 5, 2013
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A friend’s father passed and left her mother with various long arms. I was asked to assist them in identification and selling them. One is the Model 1897 pictured in this post SN 109921. I’m not knowledgeable about this Model so figured I’d post some pics and ask for your thoughts, although I did read up on it in the Madis book.
I performed a Cody search, which came back with a SN application date of Sept 7, 1900, 12 gauge, 32″ barrel & shipped on 10/2/1900. Per Madis, the standard barrel length was 30″ as was the steel buttplate. There is a poorly done repair on the stock/buttplate and the wood looks awfully shiny to me. I’d appreciate any other thoughts or observations y’all might have.
Greg
April 15, 2005
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Greg,
A 30″ barrel was standard, and a 32″ barrel was a no cost optional length (not special order). In my research survey, just over 6% of all Model 1897/97s were equipped with a 32″ barrel.
The smooth steel butt plate was standard until 1904 when it was replaced with a checkered steel butt plate (the same type that was used on the Models 64, 65, 70, and 71 in later years).
The round knob pistol grip butt stock was standard through October 1906.
On the gun in question, the slide handle stock has been replaced with an aftermarket piece, and the stocks have definitely been refinished. The rest of the gun is typical for its age. As for the value, I would ask $300, and take a $250 cash offer.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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