Winchester Model 42 – FIRST YEAR SKEET, 96% FACTORY

The Model 42 is an icon in the ranks of Winchester firearms, made in the days of the highest quality control and hand fit parts.  The Model 42 was a flawlessly produced little pump gun, chambered only for the diminutive .410 shotgun shell.  In the 30 years of production that ran from 1933 to 1963, almost 160,000 of these fine guns were produced.  A very large percentage were Field Grade guns, and there were also Skeet Grades, Trap Grades, Deluxe Grades, and rarely a Pigeon Grade.  There were just over 5000 Skeet Grades ever produced, or about 3% of total production.  That makes a Model 42 Skeet Grade a scarce gun.  The Skeet Grade can be identified by a “Skeet” style forend, checkered grip and forend, usually nicer wood, fit, and finish.  Of course, the rarity and value increases when you find a high-condition, factory original Model 42 Skeet Grade gun that was built in 1933, the very first year of production.  This fine Winchester M42 SKEET GRADE, four-digit serial number 5728 was built in 1933.  THIS IS AN UNTOUCHED, FACTORY ORIGINAL GUN INCLUDING ALL WOOD AND METAL.  The barrel, action, and trigger guard retain 98% factory blue with a bit of spotting but no pitting anywhere.  The straight stock wood has excellent factory finish remaining with no cracks or repairs, excellent original 20 LPI checkering, terminating with the original buttplate.  The mechanics are superb, bore is excellent, barrel stampings crisp and clear.  THEY DID NOT OFFER ANY TYPE OF RIB IN THE FIRST YEAR OF PRODUCTION, SO THIS IS A PROPER PLAIN BARREL WITH NO RIB.  This is a rare find as there are very few Model 42 Skeet Grade guns produced in 1933, and fewer yet that haven’t been restocked, ribs added, or finishes messed with.  Every serious collector should want this gun in his/her collection.  The Winchester Model 42 guns have continuously gone up in value year after year, so this is a great investment grade firearm as well as a gun that is just plain fun to shoot.  Isn’t it time you humble yourself at the range, or perhaps demonstrate your prowess with a good score.  Weighing just 5lbs. 13oz. this is a great gun in the field as well for quail, grouse, woodcock, doves, rabbits, or even larger game if you are an expert shot.  See the specifications below.  Don’t miss out, and thanks for looking.