Like-New Winchester Model 42 28″ Skeet .410 Bore, MFD 1942 C&R
SOLD FOR: $4,824
WOA#: WY240227CP004
Make: Winchester
Model: 42
Serial Number: 50297
Year of Manufacture: March 1942
Gauge: Bore 410, 2 1/2”
Action Type: Pump Action with 2/3 Length Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked -“WINCHESTER / PROOF STEEL”-, “MODEL 42”, “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-“, “410 – 2 ½ IN” and “SKEET”, the right is marked “MADE IN U.S.A.”. 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 “50297”. 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: Skeet, Fixed
Sights / Optics: This shotgun has a two bead set on top of the solid serrated rib. The rear bead is silver, the front bead is red.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This shotgun has a straight english walnut stock with a rounded forend. Both the forend and grip of the buttstock are checkered, the checkering is sharp. There is no notable wear. Overall, the stock set is in about Like-New 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 100% of its metal finish. The action shows minimal operational wear. The markings are mostly clear. The screws and pins are undamaged. The action is smooth and the trigger is crisp. Overall, this shotgun is in about Like-New condition as C&R.
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 Winchester Model 42, introduced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company in 1933, holds a special place in the firearms world as a scaled-down version of the popular Model 12 shotgun. Its creation was in response to a demand for a smaller, lighter firearm suitable for youth, smaller-framed shooters, and for use in dense brush or confined spaces.
Various configurations and grades were offered over the Model 42’s production lifespan, including special editions tailored to specific shooting disciplines like skeet shooting. Despite its relatively short production period until 1963, approximately 160,000 units were manufactured, solidifying its place in firearms history. The Model 42’s enduring popularity is attributed to its reliability, craftsmanship, and versatility, making it highly sought after by collectors and shooters seeking a classic and iconic firearm.
This particular Model 42 has an interesting history. This receiver was initially produced three months after the U.S. involvement in WW2 where it sat until after the war to finally be finished and sent out from the factory. There were only around 2300 made during the war. This shotgun has a post war barrel as well as 18 line per inch post war checkering on the furniture. Please see the photos for more information on this gun. Good luck on your bid! – R.E.
