Winchester Model 42 .410 Bore 26″ MOD Pump Action Shotgun MFD 1953 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,641.00

LSB#: LSB251130SL041

Make: Winchester

Model: 42

Serial Number: 123315

Year of Manufacture: 1953 / C&R

Gauge: .410 Bore, 3″ Shells

Action Type: Pump Action with Tubular Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-“, “MODEL 42 – 410 – 3 IN. CHAM.- / -MADE IN U.S.A. – WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL-” and “MOD”. The top of the barrel is marked with the “WP” proof mark at the top-rear of the barrel and the top-front of the receiver. The bottom of the receiver extension and receiver are both marked “123315”. The receiver extension and the magazine tube have indexing arrows.

Barrel Length: 26”

Choke: Fixed, MODIFIED

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

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with a post-war style grooved flat-bottom slide handle, semi-pistol grip, straight comb and checkered black hard rubber Winchester buttplate. There are minor storage marks, dings and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 7/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has defined checkering. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are a few light smudge marks and some wear on the magazine tube. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. This shotgun will slam-fire as designed. 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 Winchester Model 42 occupies a singular place in American shotgun history as the first pump-action shotgun designed specifically around the .410 bore rather than adapted from a larger frame. Introduced in 1933 and patterned after the legendary Model 12, the Model 42 offered the same smooth pump operation in a scaled, purpose-built platform that quickly earned favor among upland hunters, skeet shooters, and discerning sportsmen. This example, manufactured in 1953 by Winchester Repeating Arms, reflects the mature postwar production period, when fit, finish, and consistency were at their peak.

This shotgun presents in Fine overall condition, retaining approximately 97 percent of its original blued finish with only light smudge marks and minor wear visible on the magazine tube. The receiver, barrel, and magazine tube markings remain sharp and legible, and the screw heads are crisp, indicating careful handling over time. The walnut stocks show only minor storage-related marks with no cracks or chips, and the postwar flat-bottom slide handle, semi-pistol grip, and checkered hard rubber buttplate remain well defined and attractive, reinforcing the gun’s well-preserved appearance.

The bore is mirror bright with no erosion, rating 10 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. Chambered for 3-inch .410 shells and fitted with a fixed Modified choke, this Model 42 represents a highly desirable configuration for both field use and collection. As a smooth-functioning, postwar example in strong condition, this shotgun exemplifies why the Model 42 remains one of Winchester’s most refined and collectible small-bore pump guns. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

BF