Stevens Model 520-30 Trench Gun 12 Ga Pump Action 20” Shotgun 1942-45 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,310.00
LSB#: LSB250731EK052
Make: Savage/Stevens
Model: Model 520-30 (Savage Stevens Model 520A)
Serial Number: 60534
Year of Manufacture: 1942-1945
Gauge: 12 Ga
Action Type: Pump Action
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “MOD 520-30 / US”. The left side of the barrel is marked “PROOF TESTED —12 GAUGE / —2 ¾ INCH CHAMBER”. “P” proof and the ordnance flaming bomb cartouche are both stamped on the forward left part of the receiver and on the right chamber.
Barrel Length: 20″
Choke: Fixed: Cylinder.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead fixed to the bayonet lug.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished stocks are two piece smooth wood with semi pistol grip, straight comb, and metallic buttplate. The pump grip is cracked full length and crudely repaired. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There are scratches, dents and areas of finish loss throughout. The refinished stock rates a Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There are scratches in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 10% of its metal finish. The balance of the blueing has gone to patina. There is near-complete blueing loss due to operational wear on the mag tube. There is corrosion pitting on all metal surfaces, particularly under the barrel shroud. The bayonet lug has faded to purple in the distinct way of the 520/620 trench guns. There is field wear on both receiver and barrel. The screws are tool-marked but serviceable. There is operational wear on the loading plate. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates a Fair condition.
Mechanics: The bolt feels as if it is binding within the receiver. We have not fired this shotgun. This shotgun should not be fired unless examined by a competent gunsmith. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: John Browning filed a patent for a “hammerless” shotgun with a unique take-down barrel and locking breech block on 10 Jul 1903, it was approved on 7 Feb 1905 and along with a separate 27 Aug 1907 patent, which applied to the connection between the slide arm and the fore end, became what would be the Stevens Model 520 shotgun. When the United States entered WWII, Stevens was one of the manufacturers called upon to produce arms for the military, and many of the 520/620 shotguns would be used for aerial gunnery training, recreation, guards and MPs.
This is a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire a Stevens 520-30 Trench Gun. The gun has all of the proper markings and is in the proper serial range for U.S. purchased 520-30 trench guns, and with the typical plum hue to the bayonet lug, characteristic of the Stevens trench guns. The serial number, 60534, falls within the 38,000-70,000 range of the WWII issued 520 trench guns. While this one needs a little smithwork, the 520-30s are one of the less common trench gun models and don’t show up every day, make this one yours! Please see our photos. -C.B.
