Just picked up a 16g Winchester 1897 - question

[Killer Kanuck]

Maybe I'm just having a "slow" day, but for the life of me I can't seem to take the barrel and mag tube off of this thing. I've read how it's supposed to work, but obviously I'm missing some important step. Can someone explain it to me like I'm a 5 year old that just ate a tube of paste?

Any other tips/tricks/things to look out for in an 1897? This is the first one I've owned.

 

[madtrapper143]

Is it a take down model? I assume so. Close the action and lower the hammer. Push the front take down pin to the opposite side. Rotate the tube near a full turn till it stops. Push the pump handle forward until the action bar clears the receiver. Rotate entire forend barrel unit 90 degrees to the left and pull gun apart. It's been awhile but I think that will get it apart.

regards, Darryl

 

[struff55]

Yes when you shoot it make sure your thumb is below the bolt when it comes back or you will loose some blood .On the disassemble issue try pushing the mag tube back towards the action and then turn the tube at the same time .

 

[art.h]

Just a reminder to verify chamber length, before using the longer modern stuff is it an original winchester or one of the reproductions. A few things I can suggest about take down problem. Is the magtube slid fully forward and if it is an old one that the shell follower in the mag tube hasn't worn enough to still protude into the receiver frame? Simple fix reach through load port and push it deeper into mag tube with a pencil while rotating the barrel and mag assembly. Is the action fully open and are you rotating in he right direction?

 

[Killer Kanuck]

It's an origjnal (circa 1910) takedown model. Got her apart - the tube was just sticking a little. Slick little setup once it's working right though.
The 1/2 #### doesn't seem to work properly - that a common or not-so-common issue?

 

[ckid]

I have never had an issue with the half #### notches on any of my '97's or ones that I've I have repaired, but it is definitely a possibility as the notch looks quiete fragile. I have had to replace hammers and sear due to wear, this is evident when the hammer is dragging excessively on the bottom of the bolt. I have purchased both hammers and sears from Numrich Gun Parts for decent prices.