Modification of 1897 barrel?

[Halloway]

A neighbor is selling a Winchester 1897 from the 50's with a 30 inch barrel, and if I bought it I would want to cut it down to 20. As far as I can tell the only legal requirements are that the barrel be at least 18 inches long and the overall length of the gun must be at least 26 inches, would there be anything else stopping me from taking it to a gunsmith to have the barrel cut down?

 

[fnfalguy]

Only thing to throw out there would be consideration to resale value down the road if you wanted to get rid of it b

 

[Tisto]

From a legal standpoint, the 18" barrel and 26" overall length is really all you need to be concerned about. That said, it seems like it would be a shame to modify that gun in such a way unless there was a reason to do so. For example, if the barrel was damaged and by cutting it down you would salvage the gun. Then I would understand. However, if the overall condition of the gun is poor, such that any modifications you would make would not change it's value, then do as you see fit.

 

[Halloway]

I appreciate the responses, I may look into contacting Outlaw Gambler about a 1897 in the form I desired rather than mutilating an older gun.

 

[Acer-m14]

a politician cut her hubbies AR down to a SBR .. for the children .. crickets