Fake 97?

[leswad]

So I found this 97 on RIA auctions and the item states the stock has been replaced, which I know detracts from the value. Then I started looking at the markings and noticed they are on the right side of the receiver. Canfields book states that the US should be on the left side and re-arsenaled 97’s are very rare. Any opinions on this? Thanks!

http://www.rockislandauction.com/view_item.aspx?aid=47&iid=240018

[Rob13]

Would not touch that one unless it was really cheap and I needed a shotgun, a non collectable one.

[Sgt Rock]

That shotgun falls into the "double bogus" category, if the U.S. marking isn't fake enough for you then surely you will love the FBI Property markings!! Watch it go through the moon at auction.

[leswad]

That shotgun falls into the "double bogus" category, if the U.S. marking isn't fake enough for you then surely you will love the FBI Property markings!! Watch it go through the moon at auction.

You would think that if all you did was auction guns, the appraisers would be experts. I had previously viewed RIA in high regard, now they are classified as buyers beware.

[westgard]

Yes, it certainly makes you wonder. I think in general RIA does a good job with their descriptions and all, but every now and then stuff like this happens and it really makes you wonder if they do this on behalf of a 'good' customer selling their stuff or if its just an honest mistake.

[leswad]

I wonder if they will credit the buyer once they find out, or if it is an "as is" auction. I talked to someone at Heritage Auctions and they say they stand behind anything they auction and have had to refund money in the past.