Rifleman Q&A: Model 1897 Frame Types

by
posted on September 5, 2023
Model 1897 Frame Types

Q. I have just started collecting U.S. military shotguns and am getting some conflicting information regarding Winchester Model 97 trench guns. Some sources state the guns were of the solid-frame configuration, and others say they were the takedown type. Which is correct?


A. The answer depends on the vintage of the gun. The Model 1897 trench guns manufactured during World War I were of the solid-frame variety (above), while the World War II-production guns were of the takedown configuration (above).

As a word of advice, before spending thousands of dollars on a purportedly genuine U.S. military trench gun, it would be wise to acquire some reliable reference sources. The Internet is filled with a lot of information—some accurate and some wildly inaccurate.

—Bruce N. Canfield, Field Editor

Latest

KelTec PR57
KelTec PR57

KelTec’s PR57: Thinking Outside The (Detachable) Box

KelTec has brought the stripper clip back with the thoroughly unconventional PR57—a carry pistol with an uncommon chambering, an unusual action and no box magazine.

The Armed Citizen® June 9, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

More Western States Opening Large Shooting Ranges

A number of states in the western U.S. have opened or are planning to open large, versatile ranges to serve the growing need for publicly accessible shooting spaces.

Preview: Sneaky Pete Distressed Leather Perfect Holster

More than just a fresh look made using handcrafted leather, the Sneaky Pete Distressed Leather Perfect Holster has been redesigned to accommodate extra ammunition in addition to a concealed firearm.

New For 2025: Rost Martin RM1S & RM1C Comped

Two new models joined the Rost Martin handgun lineup in 2025, one with subcompact dimensions and another with a built-in compensator that promises to reduce recoil substantially.

CMP Resumes M1911 Pistol Sales

As of January 2025, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) had resumed sales of surplus U.S. Army M1911/M1911A1 pistols to qualified U.S. citizens.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.