Guns International #: 103470793
Seller's Inventory #: 5

Category - Winchester Shotguns - Model 97 - Winchester Shotguns - Pump

Category
Winchester Shotguns - Model 97
Winchester Shotguns - Pump

Winchester Model 1897 Factory Brush Gun – Cody Letter – High-Grade Configuration

Description:
Offered is a Winchester Model 1897 pump shotgun, 12 gauge, factory-documented Brush Gun, supported by a Cody Firearms Museum factory letter.
According to the Winchester records, this gun was manufactured with the following factory features:

• 26-inch barrel (correct and intentional for Brush Gun configuration)
• Matted barrel
• Modified choke
• Takedown frame
• Fancy, checkered walnut stock
• Checkered slide handle
• Oil finish
• Factory designated “Brush” gun in the ledger.
• LOP: 13 1/2" which is consistent with a Brush gun.
• Weight:  7lbs 9.6oz

Serial number was applied in November 1899, placing this gun in early Model 1897 production. The factory records further note a repair and return in 1901, a common and historically interesting notation that does not detract from originality.
This is not a cut-down field gun. The Brush designation appears explicitly in the factory records, and the configuration—26-inch barrel, matted top, and upgraded wood—is exactly what Winchester intended for fast handling in heavy cover. The shorter barrel is a defining feature of the Brush Gun, not a compromise.
Condition
The gun remains in very honest, original condition throughout. The metal shows smooth, even patina consistent with age, with no evidence of refinishing. The stock retains its original fancy walnut with clean, correct checkering and  the is a small hairline crack at bottom of the wrist that is tight and stable.  There is a small chip near the trigger guard on the left side of the gun,.  There are no structural issues. The action is tight and operates correctly.
Importantly, this gun does not have a Black Diamond wrist inlay, which is consistent with the factory record. Not all fancy-stock Brush Guns were ordered with the Black Diamond option.
Collector Notes
Factory-documented Brush Guns represent a scarce and desirable subset of Model 1897 production, particularly when accompanied by a Cody letter and retaining correct configuration. Many short-barreled 1897s encountered today are altered field guns; documented Brush Guns such as this example are far less common.
This is a high-grade, early sporting 1897 intended for knowledgeable collectors of Winchester pump shotguns, not a shooter or project gun.
Included

• Cody Firearms Museum factory letter
• Shipping includes Insurance and hard case.

Shotgun Gauge: 12 Gauge
Manufacturer: Winchester

Price: $4,750.00
Shipping: $200.00