Real or Fake? Authenticating an 1897 Trench Gun

Published on September 19, 2023
Duration: 16:12

This guide, presented by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms, details how to authenticate an original Winchester 1897 Trench Gun. It covers critical areas like serial number ranges, frame types (solid vs. takedown), heat shield and bayonet adapter variations, barrel markings, receiver stamps, original finishes, and stock identification. The video emphasizes distinguishing military-issue features from commercial conversions or later modifications to help collectors avoid fakes.

Quick Summary

Authenticating a Winchester 1897 Trench Gun involves checking serial numbers (WWI: E613k-E705k, WWII: 921k-986k), frame type (WWI solid, WWII takedown), heat shield holes (WWI 6, WWII 4), and front sight placement (on adapter, not barrel). Receiver markings and original finish (rust blue for WWI, commercial blue for WWII) are also crucial indicators.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Authentication
  2. 01:18Serial Number Ranges
  3. 02:08Solid vs. Takedown Frames
  4. 03:02Bayonet Adapter and Heat Shield
  5. 04:43Barrel and Sight Features
  6. 06:00Receiver Markings
  7. 06:42Finish Analysis
  8. 09:49Stock Identification
  9. 11:31Sling Swivels and Buttplates
  10. 12:43Final Verdict on Example Gun

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key serial number ranges for authenticating a Winchester 1897 Trench Gun?

WWI-era 1897 Trench Guns typically fall between E613,000 and E705,000. WWII-era examples are generally found between 921,300 and 986,300, with the majority in the 930,000 to 953,000 range. Numbers outside these blocks are likely not original military trench guns.

How can I differentiate between WWI and WWII Winchester 1897 Trench Gun frames?

WWI trench guns were built on solid frames where the barrel is not detachable. In contrast, WWII production utilized takedown frames, allowing the barrel and magazine tube assembly to be removed. This is a key structural difference.

What are the critical visual cues on the bayonet adapter and heat shield for an 1897 Trench Gun?

WWI versions feature six rows of cooling holes in the heat shield, while WWII versions have only four. WWI adapters also feature specific patent dates (Jan 15 & Mar 19, 1918) on the right side.

Where should the front sight bead be located on an authentic Winchester 1897 Trench Gun?

On a real trench gun, the front sight bead is mounted on the bayonet adapter, not the barrel. If a barrel has a bead or a hole where one was removed, it was likely a cut-down commercial barrel.

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