Make: Winchester
Model: 42 (G4204S)
Serial Number: 103103 (matching numbered parts)
Year of Manufacture: 1951 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: .410 Bore, 3" chamber
Action Type: Pump action, tube fed
Barrel Length: 28"
Choke: Fixed Full
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a metal bead fixed at the muzzle. The top of the receiver is serrated to reduce glare.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished furniture is two piece wood with a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, 14-rib forend, and a checkered synthetic buttplate. The buttplate has light wear, discoloration, and a crack running from the lower screw hole. The furniture shows no notable blemishes other than some faint sanding marks. The LOP measures 14" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks in the wood. The furniture rates in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original EXCEPT for some cold blue touch-up on the top of the receiver and barrel
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with light streaking. There is no erosion in the choke. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 87% of its mostly original metal finish. The finish shows thinning and edge wear. There is a small spot of pitting on the right side of the barrel that was touched up with cold blue. The top of the receiver was touched up with cold blue too. The screw heads show little to no tooling and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This Winchester Model 42 was manufactured in 1951 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic shotgun. Produced by Winchester, the Model 42 is widely regarded as one of the finest pump-action .410 shotguns ever made. Introduced in 1933, it was purpose-built around the .410 bore rather than being a scaled-down version of a larger gauge shotgun, contributing to its excellent balance and handling characteristics. The Model 42 remains highly sought after by collectors and shooters alike.
Chambered for .410 Bore 3 inch shells with a 28 inch barrel and fixed Full choke, this shotgun is configured in a classic upland and small game hunting arrangement. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition. The action functions correctly.
The sanded and refinished furniture rates in Fine condition with attractive presentation and solid structure. This shotgun retains approximately 87% of its mostly original metal finish. There is some cold blue touch-up present on the top of the receiver and barrel. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good Plus condition and stands as an attractive 1951 Winchester Model 42 in the desirable 3 inch chamber configuration. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
