Lot 3447: World War II U.S. Winchester Model 97 Trench Shotgun

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 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. Includes a leather sling.

Excellent, retains 97% plus of the bright original blue finish with some scattered light handling marks and some very light cycling/edge wear. The wood is also excellent with a few scattered minor dings and scratches and a crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional original example of a World War II U.S. Winchester Model 97 Trench Gun!