CLEAN Winchester M1897 Trench Gun – 12 Ga – SLAM FIRE – w/ Bayo – 1920 – C

This is a no reserve penny auction for a Winchester M1897 Trench Gun pump-action shotgun in 12ga. Serial number- 680737. This authentic slam-fire capable trench gun is in fantastic condition with a great bore, and comes with an M1917 bayonet (with scabbard), and a canvas G.I. sling. It features a "U.S." receiver stamp, CYL bore stamp, an "E"-stamp above the serial, a solid frame, and period-correct WW1 heavy gauge heat shield/bayo lug that has six staggered rows of 29 holes.

Known for their reputation in the trenches of the Western Front, the scatterguns were so effective on the front, the German government lodged an official complaint about the use of the "barbaric" weapon and threatened to summarily execute any Soldier captured with one in their possession. Our government replied in the strongest language that we would not tolerate any such "executions" and that retribution would be swift and severe. The matter was quickly dismissed and German threats proved to be empty. There is some thought that the use of the ‘97 by the U.S. Marine Corps during the famed Belleau Wood campaign in June of 1918 is what earned the Corps the moniker "Teufelhunden," or Devil Dogs.

Please review photos for exact condition, and to fully appreciate!