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. The Winchester Model 97 Trench Gun was extensively utilized in the Pacific Theater during World War II and remained in the Army and Marine inventory until the 1990s. Single bead sight on the bayonet lug, with a six-hole heat shield over the barrel, which has standard markings, flaming bomb and Winchester proofs on top of the breech, and cylinder choke and 2 3/4 inch chamber markings on the left of the breech. "U.S." 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, smooth pistol grip stock stamped with a boxed "W.B." above crossed cannons on the left side, and a checkered Winchester buttplate. 13 7/8 inch length of pull. Includes a 1917 dated Winchester M1917 bayonet, olive drab green leather scabbard with two rivet belt retainer, and M1907 leather sling. Provenance: The Steven Preston Military Collection

Very fine, retaining 85% original blue finish with some scattered patches of light pitting on the barrel beneath the handguard, a dent in the right rear of the handguard, some scattered light freckling on the receiver, a few small patches of deep pitting visible at the rear of the trigger guard and right rear of the receiver at the buttstock juncture, and sharp markings in the metal. Wood is also very fine with defined edges, some light scratches and handling marks, two small cracks on top behind the receiver, and crisp stamps. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet is fine with light pitting on the tip of the otherwise sharp blade and some light scratches on the wood panels, scabbard is very good.