Model 1897 or Model 12?

[OldBrownDog]

Hi guys, I have a question/dilemma for you. I was in an LGS earlier today, and they have a Winchester 1897 of unknown vintage and a Model 12 born in 1920 in on consignment. The 1897 has a 30" barrel, but I don't remember the choke. The Model 12 is fixed full choke on a 26" barrel. They are both in similar shape, I'd say fair to good, with light surface rust and patina along with wear marks and some minor wood dings on the 1897 and similar with some minimal surface pitting on the receiver of the 12. Bores are excellent on both. The sellers are asking $500 for each. I'm not really a shotgun guy, I only own a Winchester 1300 in 20 gauge for deer hunting, but I've always wanted a classic 12 gauge to add to my collection. I have some extra fun money that I didn't expect to have, and I think I want to get one. I will not be buying both. Which one do you guys think I should get?

 

[Uniquedot]

For $500 in fair to good shape? neither one! I'd give $500 for both...maybe even $300 each.

 

[OldBrownDog]

Thanks for the response. I just checked gunbroker and I see some Model 12's that are much nicer than these for the same or less money....guess I should have checked there first!

 

[308win]

Unless they are exceptional (you said they weren't) or have some unusual connection with someone/something they seem pricey. I passed on a 97 in poor shape but with an Ohio Penitentury cartouche or stamping on the barrel for under $200 a few years ago. And I expect it wouldn't bring much more than that now.

 

[Rodman579]

those guns are priced a bit high. model 12s are a bit cheaper usually. if the 97s was a 1950s built gun it would be worth more as they were built stouter. if you had a serial number of even the first 3 numbers and letter designation of the 97 i could give you a ballpark when it was made. i like both guns and own several 97s but a model 12 serves as my home defense gun.

 

[loose noose]

Those prices are unbelievable, out here they would get at least $500 for the model 12, and upwards of $600 for the model 97, regardless of the condition. Guess I'm gonna have to go out east before to long.

 

[OldBrownDog]

Thanks for your responses guys.

Rodman- No idea on the serial number, but I appreciate the offer.

I stopped in another LGS today, and they had a much nicer looking Model 12, asking $425. I was there getting my paperwork in order for a CMP M1 (NJ requires them to ship to FFL :banghead, so I didn't get much time to look at it, but I think I'm going to go back for it next week. It looks in good to excellent shape. Appeared to just have hunting and handling wear, but I'll give it a closer check out next week.

 

[rsnell]

Both guns are priced too high. The Model 12 is the better choice but is worth more like $300. I do not believe the 26 inch barrel is full choke. I have a model 12 manufactured is 1916. The barrel is made stamped " nickel steel".
This refers to the type of steel used to make the barrel.

When I purchased the gun in 1955 it was a full choke, 30 inch barrel. Since I was shooting quail and rabbits over dogs, I had the barrel shortened to 26 inches. Have the choke checked!

Bob

 

[loose noose]

Most of the older shotguns had the choke in the final 3" of the barrel if I remember right. anybody out there have any idea why the model 12 and 97 are selling so cheap back there?