Factory Engraved Browning Model 42 High Grade V 5 .410 GA 26″ Pump Shotgun
SOLD FOR: $1,875
WOA#: WY240210TM003
Make: Miroku in Japan, for Browning
Model: 42 High Grade, Grade V
Serial Number: 00721NZ982
Year of Manufacture: 1991 (NZ Date Code)
Gauge: .410, 2 ½ & 3” Shells
Action Type: Pump / Slide Action, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Shotguns
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING MODEL 42 .410 BORE – 2 1/2″ AND 3″ SHELLS FULL”, with a “NP” proof, found again on top of the receiver to the left of the rib extension. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL, P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN”. The underside of the barrel extension is marked “00721”. The bottom of the receiver is marked “00721 / NZ982″. The butt plate is marked “BROWNING”. The left side of the receiver has a scroll engraving surrounding dog and pheasant scene, the right a similarly surrounded waterfowl scene with the animals in both scenes gold-plated.
Barrel Length: 26”
Choke: Fixed Full
Sights / Optics: The shotgun is mounted with a steel bead fixed to the front of its ventilated rib. The rib meets at an extension slotted onto the receivers; the tops are serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece checkered, gloss-finished select walnut set. The forend has double diamond and surrounding checkers on both sides. The butt stock has checkering on the pistol grip with a fluted comb, blued steel grip cap and textured black plastic buttplate. There is no notable wear or damage in the stocks, only light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.75” from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate; the plate has no notable wear or damage. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue with Gold Accents
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is faint storage wear but generally this shotgun if free of any notable operation wear of handling wear. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Excellent-Like New condition.
Mechanics: The actions function correctly. These shotguns take down in seconds for easy storage and maintenance. We have not fired these shotguns. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a serial matching box with paperwork including the manual and an extra buttplate. The box displays some mild storage wear.
Our Assessment: This shotgun is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, harking back to a time when Browning partnered with Miroku to breathe new life into the shotgun legacy after Winchester had ceased production of the iconic Model 12 and 42. This collaboration offered a rare chance for enthusiasts to acquire new production firearms, blending nostalgia with the excitement of owning something fresh off the line. Amidst the production, while standard Grade I models were widely produced, it was the limited production of Grade V models that truly stood out. The production timelines for the 20 and 28 gauge Model 12s were distinct, yet the Model 42 saw a unique overlap in its manufacturing. The Grade V Model 42s, produced between 1991 and 1993 in a limited run of only 6,000 units, stand as a testament to exclusivity and craftsmanship. This particular Grade V, in Excellent condition and accompanied by its serial-matching box, showcases the pinnacle of gunmaking artistry. From the meticulously selected walnut stocks to the exquisite engraving and tasteful gold accents, this shotgun is destined to be a centerpiece in any collection. For collectors of Winchester or Browning shotguns, missing out on this set would mean overlooking a visually stunning tribute to what many consider the finest .410 shotgun ever crafted. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
