A martial variant of a John Browning designed sporting gun, the 520 trench gun was originally developed in response to a World War I request for new fighting shotguns for the American Expeditionary Force. It made a strong impression on the evaluators but did not make it into the field before the armistice was signed. Seeing potential for the gun on the police market, Stevens kept production going until 1932, and at the outbreak of World War II, the U.S. government bought every 520 that was still in the warehouse. Checked back into the arsenals at the end of the war, many were sent back into the field for the Korean War and Vietnam. The right of the barrel has the three-line Stevens company address, and the left has the two-line gauge and chamber (2 3/4") markings. Choke gauges at cylinder. The left of the receiver is stamped "MOD.520-30" ahead of "U.S.", and the correct "P" above a flaming bomb proof is on the right of the barrel at the breech and left front edge of the receiver. It has an all blue finish with smooth walnut forearm and pistol grip stock with a plastic buttplate. The stock and bayonet lug are correctly fitted with sling swivels. Length of pull is 14 inches.

Very fine, with 85% plus original blue finish, showing a plum patina on the bayonet lug, areas of brown and gray patina, minor spotting and light handling marks. Wood is very fine, with minor chipping around the upper tang and mild dents and scuffs overall. Mechanically excellent.