Gentlemen,
I’m looking for some information on the Winchester M97 shotgun. I have found one that is extremely nice condition – albeit the gun has been refinished. It was re-blued and the stock was refinished about 25 years ago – and it has been sitting in a safe ever since. It is in beautiful shape, although as I say it has been refinished – so it’s not original.
What I’m wondering is if the parts are original. Based on what I have been told the gun was manufactured in 1907. There is no checkering on the wood – but the barrel is 28” long. Based on what I’ve read only certain higher grades came with the 28” barrel – and they should have had the checkered stock.
Also, what were the original butt plates made from? Were they plastic back in 1907 – or should this be steel?
I’d appreciate it if anybody could shed some light on this gun. It IS in beautiful condition, but for the asking price I would also want it to be original.
Thanks for your help