Pre-War Winchester Model 42 28″ Field Grade .410 Bore Pump Shotgun 1939 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,250.00

LSB#: LSB250712DI024

Make: Winchester

Model: 42

Serial Number: 37755

Year of Manufacture: 1939

Gauge: .410 bore, 3”

Action Type: Pump Action with 5-shot Tubular Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked -“WINCHESTER / PROOF STEEL”-, “MODEL 42”, “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-“, “410 – 3 IN CHAM.” and “FULL”, the right is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO.- / NEW HAVEN, CONN. – U.S.A PAT. NO. 1912403-1969255”. The top of the barrel at the rear and the top of the receiver at the front each have an ovalled “WP” proof. The bottom of the receiver extension and receiver are both marked “37755”. The bottom of the magazine tube and the bottom of the receiver extension are marked with opposing arrow indexing marks. The left of the trigger guard has an inspector’s mark.

Barrel Length: 28”

Choke: Fixed.  FULL.

Sights / Optics: There is a silver colored bead at the front of the barrel.   The top of the receiver is serrated for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut with 18-groove slide handle, semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and checkered black hard rubber Winchester buttplate.  There are no chips or cracks.  There are scratched compression lines, mostly on the buttstock.  The LOP measures 13.75″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in a Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original.

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion in the bore.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. The action shows operational wear. There is blueing loss on chamber, barrel, mag tube, and edges of the receiver.  There are some minor scratches on the trigger guard.  The screw heads are lightly worn with strong slots. The markings are clear for the most part.  Overall, this shotgun is in a Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Model 42 was the first pump shotgun specifically designed for the .410 chambering.  It was designed by William Roemer beginning in 1928, but its introduction was delayed a year to pair its introduction with the new 3” .410 shell being developed by Western Cartridge Company.  Both were brought to market in 1933.

This is a vintage pre-war Winchester Model 42 .410 bore pump action shotgun. It closely resembles its larger cousin the Model 12. This example has a 28″ Full choked barrel, smooth stocks with extended slide handle and pistol grip. It is in Fine condition with flawless mechanics and a beautifully bright bore. This shotgun would make a fine addition to any collection.  It would also make an excellent trainer for a new shooter or a light (5lb, 13oz) quail gun.  Please see our photos and good luck! – C.B.