Manufactured in 1942, 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 and "42" on the bottom 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.

Fine, retains 50% of the faded, thin, original blue finish with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina. The wood is also fine with some minor dings and scratches scattered throughout, "20" in yellow paint on the bottom of the grip, and clear cartouches. Mechanically excellent.