Manufactured in 1943, the Winchester 1897 was one of John Browning's many contributions to American sporting and combat arms, and in both the "trench" and "riot" configurations performed fine service for military and law enforcement users, seeing combat action as early as 1899 in the Philippines, and earning particular fame in World War I and World War II for it's potent close range firepower. Single bead sight on the bayonet lug, with a four-hole heat shield over the barrel, which has an American "flaming bomb" stamp among the standard markings, cylinder choke and a 2 3/4 inch chamber. "U.S. (flaming bomb)" is stamped on the left rear side of the receiver, with matching serial numbers on the receiver and barrel iron. Fitted with an 18-groove forearm and a smooth pistol grip stock stamped "G.H.D./(crossed cannons)" on the left side, a checkered Winchester buttplate and a 13 3/4 inch length of pull. Included with the lot is a 1917 dated U.S. Winchester bayonet, 21 3/4 inches overall with a 17 inch blade, wood grips and a green leather and steel sheath.

Very fine, with 85% plus of the original blue finish, showing areas of brown and gray patina, scattered spotting and handling marks, and mild edge wear. The forearm shows a short hairline crack on the left rear side, and the buttplate shows some cracks and chips, otherwise the wood is fine with mild scuffs and scattered dents. Mechanically excellent.