Baker Model 1897 Hammer

Baker Gun & Forging Company · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1897

Also known as: Baker Gun Co. Model 1897, Baker 1897 Hammer Gun

Overview

The Baker Model 1897 Hammer is a break-action, side-by-side double-barrel shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, built by the Baker Gun & Forging Company of Batavia, New York. It features exposed external hammers, side-action locks, double triggers, and Damascus twist barrels on a top-break action with a top lever. Introduced in 1897, it was the last exposed-hammer model in the Baker line and typifies the quality craftsmanship of late-nineteenth-century American shotgun manufacturing.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	3200 g (112.9 oz)
Overall Length	1207 mm (47.52")
Barrel Length	787 mm (30.98")
Action Type	Break Action
Firing Mechanism	Hammer Fired
Trigger Type	Double Trigger
Magazine Capacity	2 rounds
Muzzle Velocity	400 m/s (1312 fps)
Effective Range	40 m (44 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Smoothbore
Frame Material	Steel
Barrel Material	Damascus Steel
Stock Material	Walnut
Finish	Blued

Calibers

12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12ga, 12 Bore

Features

Firing modes: Manual
Feed systems: Break Open Dual Barrel
Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Hammers
Features: Exposed Hammers, Side By Side Barrels, Top Break Action, Top Lever, Double Triggers, Damascus Twist Barrels, Checkered Pistol Grip Stock

Service history

Operators

Civilian sport and hunting market · adopted 1897

Production

Estimated total produced: 9,500 · Production years: 1897-1911

Approximately 9,500 Model 1897 hammer guns were produced before the model was discontinued in 1911; it was the last Baker hammer-gun model introduced.

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Discontinued: 1911

Notes

Commonly built with 30-31 inch Damascus twist barrels and roughly 3-inch chambers; owing to the soft Damascus barrels these guns are generally regarded as unsuitable for modern smokeless-powder loads.

Background

The Baker Gun & Forging Company traced its roots to gunmaker William H. Baker and became a well-known Batavia, New York, maker of affordable American double guns during the golden age of the side-by-side shotgun.