Howdy
I bought this 1908 vintage Model 1897 when I first started shooting Cowboy Action. 12 gauge, 30" full choke barrel. A lot of the guys in CAS buy these old guns and saw off the barrels. I did not. I soon discovered the '97 was not the gun for me in CAS, and I have been shooting SXSs ever since. But I kept the ole '97 anyway. Turns out it is a pretty good Trap gun with that 30" Full Choke barrel, and I won quite a few Cowboy Trap competitions with it over the years.
Yes, you have to be aware that when you pull the slide back the bolt comes right back at your hand. But as long as you keep your hand back a little bit on the wrist it is not a problem. No sharp edges on mine anyway, probably because it is so old.
Regarding the Norinco '97s used in CAS, yes, they are very popular. I only see them with that short, 20" barrel. I wouldn't put much store in the 'silky smooth' action that Cimarron talks about in their advertising, I'm sure most serious CAS competitors have them smoothed up for competition. I can tell you that yes, they sometimes do fail, I have seen it happen, however you have to remember that serious CAS competitors run their guns very hard. I'm sure for the average shooter who just wants one for fun they are fine.
I do like to take my old '97 to the Trap field every once in a while, but my serious, day to day Trap gun is much newer.
My Model 12 that was made in 1948.
P.S. Regarding lowering the hammer on a live round with a '97: Be very careful if you choose to do so. The hammer is very small, much smaller say, then the hammer of a SAA. Be careful and don't try it if your hands are sweaty.