Norinco Model 97 Trench
Norinco (China North Industries Corporation) · Shotgun · In Production · 1990
Also known as: Norinco 1897 Trench, Norinco M97, Model 1897T, Norinco Model 1897 Trench Gun
Overview
The Norinco Model 97 Trench is a Chinese-made pump-action shotgun, a modern reproduction of John Browning's exposed-hammer Winchester Model 1897 Trench Gun. Chambered in 12 gauge with a 2-3/4 inch chamber and fed from a five-round tubular magazine, it mirrors the wartime original with a 20-inch cylinder-bore barrel, a perforated steel heat shield, and a bayonet lug accepting an M1917-pattern blade bayonet. Like the gun it copies, the Model 97 has no trigger disconnector, so it can slam-fire by holding the trigger and working the slide. Produced by Norinco and imported into North America at budget prices, it gives collectors and cowboy-action and historical shooters an affordable stand-in for the increasingly scarce and expensive Winchester trench guns.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3175 g (112.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1010 mm (39.76") |
| Barrel Length | 508 mm (20.00") |
| Action Type | Pump Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tubular |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2560 J (1888 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Slam Fire Capable
- Features: Perforated Heat Shield, Bayonet Lug, External Hammer, Takedown Design, Bead Sight, Cylinder Bore
Service history
Operators
- Civilian Sport Shooters
Production
Production years: 1990s-present
Imported into North America in periodic batches by importers such as Interstate Arms Corporation (IAC); total production figures are not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: China
Designer: John Browning
Notes
The receiver is marked 'MADE IN CHINA'. Capacity is commonly cited as 5+1, with the tubular magazine holding five 2-3/4 inch shells. Build quality and fit vary between import batches.
Background
Norinco's 1897 reproductions became popular as a low-cost alternative to original Winchester trench guns, which command high collector prices. The clone faithfully reproduces the slam-fire 'trench sweeper' behavior of the WWI-era original, making it a favourite among reenactors and cowboy-action shooters who want the look and feel without risking a century-old antique.