Cofachique Dick Posted April 25, 2011 Share Posted April 25, 2011 Don't need another shotgun, but thinking about getting a '97 just because..... Knowing nothing about them, can you guys tell me what to look for in an old gun? Trouble spots, things that wear out and turn a shooter into a wall hanger? Thanks. C D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Doc Fill 'Em 67797 Posted April 25, 2011 Share Posted April 25, 2011 With the bolt cocked back, see if the bolt has any up and down movement. If it has too much it won't cock the hammer. The less play the better. If it's a takedown, see if the barrel serial number matches the receiver serial number. If they don't it's no big deal, but, don't pay as much if they don't match. I bought one real cheap. I don't think the seller knew, but, the receiver was cracked in the threaded area where the barrel assembly attached. Had to part that one out. Look for cracks there. Look for play where the barrel and receiver meet (takedown model). Some play can be adjusted out, but only to a point. If possible, see if you can try before you buy. Make sure it works. A lot of '97s are loaded one at a time. If you think you're going to use the magazine, say for Wild Bunch, make sure it feeds from the magazine. I'm sure there are more. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chickamauga Charlie, SASS #47963 Posted April 25, 2011 Share Posted April 25, 2011 thats a pretty good list Doc, i would also suggest you stay away from the three screw models. these, as implied, have three screws in the forestock and can be a source of frustration when screws loosen up or the wood splits from stress. CC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Yank_MaChain Posted April 25, 2011 Share Posted April 25, 2011 Make sure that the screw heads are in good shape. If they look like they been removed using a butter knife, chances are they can't be removed and that's why they look that way. Also, if it's an older model in original condition, make sure that it will take 2 3/4 inch shells. All of this is from my personal experience It's vintage 1899 (3 screw) which I had to buy a new carrier for (after drilling out screws) and lengthen the chamber. Runs like a dream now!! To bad I found out later, that I'm '97 handicapped. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tom Bullweed Posted April 26, 2011 Share Posted April 26, 2011 Cracks around the stock wrist and forearm Excessive movement of the bolt Springiness of the extracters Tightness of the barrle fit Tightness of the carrier with bolt open Run snap caps through the action to make sure that every cycles Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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