Pre-War Winchester Model 42 26″ Skeet .410 Bore Pump Shotgun, MFD 1940 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,333
WOA#: WY240118AL006
Make: Winchester
Model: 42
Serial Number: 39493
Year of Manufacture: 1940
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. 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 “39493”. 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: 26”
Choke: Skeet, Fixed
Sights / Optics: There is a faux ivory bead at the front of the barrel on the serrated. The top of the receiver is serrated for glare reduction as well.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with slide handle, capped-bottom semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and checkered black hard rubber Winchester buttplate. The checkering is crisp with sharp peaks. There are no chips or cracks. There are a few faint compression lines but they are sparse. The LOP measures 14″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished
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 99% of its metal finish. The action shows light operational wear. There are some minor scratches on the trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear for the most part. The proofs are a bit shallow and partial. The serials are a bit shallow though still clear and legible. Overall, this shotgun is in about Excellent 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: This is a vintage pre-war Winchester Model 42 .410 bore pump action shotgun from 1940. The Model 42 was the first pump shotgun specifically designed for the .410 chambering and resembles its larger cousin the Model 12. This example has a 26″ Skeet choked barrel, checkered stocks with extended slide handle and pistol grip. It is in Excellent condition with flawless mechanics and a beautifully bright bore. This shotgun would make a fine addition to any collection, especially if you want to challenge yourself on the Skeet fields. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
