Winchester 97 strength.
I'm looking at picking up a nice '97 Winchester 12 gauge. Made in 1934, 30" full-choke barrel. It's in great shape overall.
I'd like to take it waterfowl hunting.
Will it hold up to any of the modern, heavy non-toxic 2 3/4" rounds? Is it a strong action? I know better than to use steel shot in such a shotgun, but what about Bismuth or Hevi-Shot?
Any input would be much appreciated. I really want that old scattergun.[:)]
I'd like to take it waterfowl hunting.
Will it hold up to any of the modern, heavy non-toxic 2 3/4" rounds? Is it a strong action? I know better than to use steel shot in such a shotgun, but what about Bismuth or Hevi-Shot?
Any input would be much appreciated. I really want that old scattergun.[:)]
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The Model 97 is plenty stout enough for the modern heavy non-toxic 2-3/4" shot shells. I shoot Hevi-Shot in mine. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by Bert H.
The Model 97 is plenty stout enough for the modern heavy non-toxic 2-3/4" shot shells. I shoot Hevi-Shot in mine.
Thanks once again, Bert.[:)] I'll go work out a deal on it ASAP. I don't think I can pass it up at $400.0 -
You are quite welcome, and I most certainaly would not pass up a deal on a nice Model 97 for just $400[^] 0 -
If you could test fire prior to purchase, it would be a plus. Compared to modern guns a 97 has to be handled differently. Great care has to be used on the positioning of the firing hand on the grip. If you choke up on it, the breech block will mangle the top of your hand, if your not careful. 0 -
As Bert suggests', the 97's of that vintage, have been nitro tested, and proofed, so they should easily handle any 2 3/4" high base load.
However, I know that some of the older shotguns and steel shot did not mix well. I would be a little careful with the tungsten based non-toxic loads too. But if Bert says so, then it is ok. There is also still Bismuth out there too.
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AS TO STRENGHT......AS ABOVE, SHOOT AWAY. JUST MAKE SURE THE TAKE-DOWN ADJUSTMENT IS 'TIGHT' (NO WIGGEL IN THE MIDDLE) 0 -
Waterfowl shooting requires steel shot by federal law. I would not shoot steel in a full choke vintage gun. Stick to upland game. You could have it modified by installing screw-in chokes so you could use the modified on waterfowl. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by cbyerly
Waterfowl shooting requires steel shot by federal law. I would not shoot steel in a full choke vintage gun. Stick to upland game. You could have it modified by installing screw-in chokes so you could use the modified on waterfowl.
Federal law mandates Non-Toxic shot, and there ae several others that have been approved, other than steel, not limited to, but include Bismuth, Tungsten Matrix, and Tungsten-Polymer based "Heavy Shot", which is denser than lead. Bismuth is slightly less dense than lead, and softer than steel or the tungsten based shot. I would use Bismuth, thru a tite choked gun.
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Originally posted by 35WhelenClassic
I'm looking at picking up a nice '97 Winchester 12 gauge. Made in 1934, 30" full-choke barrel. It's in great shape overall.
Have the forcing cone checked for proper length for the newer folded shotshells. The older chambers had shorter forcing cones because the shells did not unfold. A good shotgun gunsmith will have the proper gauge to measure the forcing cone length, the reamer and hone to do a proper modification. Less chamber pressure and better patterns will be your rewards.0 -
quote:Originally posted by azpowerwagon Originally posted by 35WhelenClassic
I'm looking at picking up a nice '97 Winchester 12 gauge. Made in 1934, 30" full-choke barrel. It's in great shape overall.
Have the forcing cone checked for proper length for the newer folded shotshells. The older chambers had shorter forcing cones because the shells did not unfold. A good shotgun gunsmith will have the proper gauge to measure the forcing cone length, the reamer and hone to do a proper modification. Less chamber pressure and better patterns will be your rewards.
I'll do that. Thanks for the input.[:)]0
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