Model 1897 date

[M2HMGHB]

My father just picked up an old model 1897 shotgun. The serial number is 425L* with either a 1 or an L. Could someone please give a date of manufacture? Also whats a good source for a forearm as the one on this is starting to break. Thanks in advance.

 

[Old Fuff]

According to my book, Winchester model '97 serial numbers did not include any letters, just numbers. If what your are looking at are "1" instead of "l" then your dad's gun was made in 1899. Be sure you are not looking at a partial number with some of it worn off.

For parts check: www.e-gunparts.com

 

[Jagermeister]

To bring up the old letering, so it may be readable. Take a #2 graphite pencil and color over the numbers. This will (most times) highlight them so you can read them.

JM