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." and a flaming bomb stamped on the left rear of the receiver, with matching serial numbers on the receiver and barrel iron. "42" dated underneath the breech of the barrel. Fitted with an 18-groove forearm, smooth pistol grip stock stamped with a boxed "W.B." above crossed cannons ordnance cartouche on the left side, and a checkered Winchester buttplate. 13 3/4 inch length of pull. Includes M1907 brown leather sling.

Excellent, retains 95% original blue finish with some moderate cycling wear, a few light scratches, a few small dings underneath the action, a few areas of scattered light freckling, and sharp markings and edges in the metal overall. Stock is very fine with defined edges and forearm grooves, a mild chip in the right rear of the forearm, numerous scattered light handling marks and scratches, and crisp stampings. Mechanically excellent.