Winchester 1897 issues

redhead71

I have a Winchester 1897 12ga pump, the slide action arms will move to the rear, but bolt will not unlock the carrier moves just a little bit. any ideas?

Bert H.

What is the serial number on your Model 1897?

Winchester changed the bolt unlocking mechanism from its original design twice during the production run. If you have a later production Model 1897, the firing pin needs to be depressed, and the slide needs to be moved (pulled) forward slightly before pulling it to the rear to unlock (open) the bolt.

redhead71

the serial number is 460887 trap model, with the hammer in full cock position the slide action is locked

navc130

Assme you are pushing in the slide lock release button on the right side of the receiver to release the locked action when the hammer is at full cock. It sounds like the slide is not engaging the breech block hook to push it rearward. There may be worn surfaces. Disassembly and inspection is in order. But, before that I would saturate the left side of the breech block with solvent or soak the receiver in solvent to see if that frees up the engaging parts from dried oil or grease. If you cannot disassemble it yourself then a trip to a gunsmith is required.
If the carrier is dropping down the breech block should be moving at the same time.

Bert H.

quote:Originally posted by redhead71
the serial number is 460887 trap model, with the hammer in full cock position the slide action is locked


Your Model 1897 is operating exactly as it was designed to do. You need to fully drop the hammer (carefully if the gun is loaded), then pull forward on the slide handle before pulling it to the rear. If the gun is fully loaded, make sure you unload the magazine first.

redhead71

ok the carrier will unlock but bolt will not?

MIKE WISKEY

the carrier locks the bolt in place. check the chamber to see if you have a stuck shell