This excellent World War I era Winchester Model 1897 trench shotgun falls into the approximate known serial range E613000-E705000 of military issued shotguns. 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 its potent close range firepower. Features a six-hole handguard/bayonet adapter with "PAT.APPL.FOR" marked on the right. The barrel protrudes 1/2 inch ahead of the bayonet adapter, which is considered correct for a World War I era Winchester 1897 trench shotgun. Receiver and cylinder choke marked barrel both stamped with a circled Winchester "WP" proof at the breech. The slide bar has the model and trademark information. Grooved forearm and smooth pistol grip stock with a Winchester branded checkered hard rubber buttplate. Length of pull is 13 3/4 inches. Reference page 50 of Bruce Canfield's book "Complete Guide to United States Military Combat Shotguns" for information on World War I era Winchester Model 1897 trench shotguns. Includes a Winchester M1917 bayonet dated "1917" and an olive drab green leather scabbard with metal ends.

Excellent, retains 97% plus bright original blue finish with cycling marks, smooth brown patina on the balance, some scattered light scratches concentrated mostly on the receiver, and sharp markings and edges in the metal. Wood is also excellent with a few light handling marks, and crisp defined forearm grooves and edges overall. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet and scabbard are fine. This is one of the finest surviving examples of a World War I era Winchester Model 1897 trench shotgun in existence today!