Skip to main content
Help Center Community Shop

Rebarrel an1897 Winchester?

R.L. Smith
I have inherited a model 1897 Winchester 12 ga. from the wife of my old departed hunting buddy, Dean Miller. Of course I was happy to recive it! However, after getting it home, I found the barrel bulged on the left side about one inch above the magazine tube. I started asking around about the old shotgun and checking out the net. It was made in 1899, S/N 68303. It is of the "solid receiver" type, and will not accept the newer take-down barrels. I've been told to cut off the barrel. That would not only ruin it's looks but leave about 17 inches for a barrel, and if I'm not mistaken, that's an illegal gun! My questions to the experts are simply this. Can this old gun be rebarreled? If so, where do I start finding a "serviceable" barrel? The shotgun has a 30 inch full choke on it. Please advise me on what would be my best course of action. I should also note that I'm willing to spend the money to restore the old gun to it's original condtion,or do I have a "wall-hanger"? Thanks in advance!

R.L.Smith
0

Comments

3 comments

Date Votes
  • captkirk3@dslextreme.com
    Welcome to the FORUMS: First You'll have to locate a Barrel...The Wanted Ads on gunbroker is a good Place to begin...Thats if you truly want to replace the Barrel...An expansion Plug in the hands of a Good Gunsmith can also be of immence help...I've seen lots of Barrels with Dents and a Good Smith with the know how and the Plugs fix this problem...!! So don't go hurrying off Half Cocked...I'm sure that someone with the equipment will be along shortly to rescue you ...If not...You can allways check Your phone Book...

    Captain Kirk, Tech Staff
    0
  • R.L. Smith
    Thanks Captain!
    I'm on my way to the "want ads". Yes, I have found a gunsmith locally. He comes highly recommended. I plan on seeing him this weekend.

    R.L.Smith
    0
  • only winchesters
    Mr. Smith: You don't say how bad the "bulged" part of the barrel is. Some times they can be "rerolled" and the bulge will be gone. You might contact Simmons Gun Repair and Sales Inc. The vent rib company. they do all kinds of barrel work. Their phone # (913) 782-3131 The Solid Frame 97 barrels are going to be hard to find, since that style was discontinued around WW I, in favor of the take down version. Hope this helps. Regards Dave
    0

Please sign in to leave a comment.

Recent Activity