M97 trench gun

[gb0399]

I need some help...
I am turning a Winchester 1897 into a M97 trench gun. Of course it will never be one, but it sure will look like one. And yes, before this thread goes the wrong direction, I know this is not good for the collector’s value. Here is my question... How far past the end of the heat shield does the barrel need to be cut? I have seen pictures where it is shorter than the tip of the bayonet lug and others where it is longer. I'll post pictures later. Thank you

 

[rcmodel]

The barrel needs to be 20" long, measured from the breech-face.

Where that leaves your handguard and bayonet the lug I don't know.

But this is the real deal near as I can tell.

http://downeasttrading.joesalter.com/detail.php?f_qryitem=24790

rc

 

[gb0399]

I cut it to 20". looks pretty cool. That was my first time cutting a shotgun barrel. I cut it with a hack saw and cleaned it up with some hand files and 220.
Interesting side note. When I took the magazine apart there was a 1/2 wooden dowel in there. evidently it was used as a "plug" for duck hunting.

 

[gb0399]

picture attached

 

[rcmodel]

Looks pretty close to right!!

Good job!!

PS: The real test would be to put a 1917 Enfield bayonet on it and see if it fits.

See this about that:

http://www.americanrifleman.org/articles/2014/3/18/which-bayonet-for-the-97-trench-gun/

rc

 

[Coyote3855]

Interesting side note. When I took the magazine apart there was a 1/2 wooden dowel in there. evidently it was used as a "plug" for duck hunting.

Most hunting shotguns come from the factory with that plug to reduce the magazine capacity to two shells. I'm not sure when that requirement was implemented, but it is a federal rule if hunting migratory birds. Some State statutes incorporate this regulation as well.

Depending on when your 97 was manufactured, it may have preceeded the regulation and the plug was added later to comply with the law.

 

[gb0399]

I am familiar with the duck hunting plug. My 870 came with the green plastic issue plug. This is 100% homemade wooden dowel.

I have finished notching the barrel and fitting the stock. All that is left now is the finish work. If everything goes to plan, I should have a finished gun by this weekend. Fingers crossed.