You need to know the age of the gun. Use the serial number to research the date of manufacture. I'm not sure exactly when the mandatory steel shot laws came into effect but I know it wasn't in the 70's when I started duck hunting but it has been in effect at least 15 years. If it's older than 1990 I wouldn't. You can always ask a gunsmith or the manufacturer. I just checked. They stopped making that model in the early 70's so it's barrel is not approved for steel shot.
yes, but you shouldn't shoot it with a full choke. make sure you have a modified or improved cylinder choke in the gun before shooting non-toxic shot.
Its not advisible, the date of manufacture on the gun may not allow, since barrels weren't as hard as they are today
yes
Not recommended
Yes your Winchester model 1897 pump action shotgun can shoot buck shot through it.
Can't be answered without knowing what it is choked.
Not recommended
Yes
yes
None.
Ensure you look at the stamped shell gauge on the side of the receiver (12 or 20 Gauge). Should be able to take 2 3/4" and 3" shells.
If it is not choked to tight, yes.
Needs to be examined by a gunsmith.
You can, but, it will not be a good thing.