Picked up a M1917 at the gun show today

[tlawler]

I found this M1917 at the Lakeland gun show this morning. It’s been bubba’d a bit, but mechanically sound with a pretty good trigger. Of course I really didn’t need it, but with a sub-$500 price, it intrigued me. I offered $400, which was accepted, so I just couldn’t walk away from it. Numbers match except the barrel, and of course the incorrect smooth target stocks. The pin for the lanyard has been ground off and bubba checkered the backstrap. There’s no government marking on the underside of the barrel and no s/n, assembly #, or proof mark on the barrel flat like my other M1917. The barrel is fitted well and is a M1917 barrel, from what I can tell, if it has been changed. Also, there is no “Made in U.S.A.” on the right side of the frame. I think the 91097 s/n puts it early 1918? I’ll request a ship date from Dr. Jinks to find out.

 

[StrawHat]

I find 91097 as having been accepted by the Army in August, 1918.

A nice shooter! Wish I had seen it first!

Kevin

 

[younggun22]

Hard to beat an N frame for $500! Nice snag!

 

[quinn]

I think you bought those rosewood non releieved targets at a discount then got the gun for free! That wood would have followed me home in a heartbeat...

 

[younggun22]

I think you bought those rosewood non releieved targets at a discount then got the gun for free! That wood would have followed me home in a heartbeat...

That’s what I was thinking. Even in not great condition I would (and have) bought the gun for the stocks.

 

[Muley Gil]

Looks like a decent 1917.

The MADE IN U.S.A. didn't appear until mid 1922 and then only on commercial revolvers.

 

[Hawg Rider]

That's a nice find, you did great! The stocks are almost worth what you paid for the 1917. I usually try to make the Lakeland show at least once a year, but unfortunately this year (including this weekend) life had too many hiccups for me. The show always has a great selection of vintage and unusual firearms, and the LRPC members are always happy to talk about their collections! I'll try again in January. Congratulations!