This exceptional factory engraved Model 42 is identified by serial number, described, and photographed on pages 92 and 93 of "The Winchester Model 42" by Ned Schwing. Manufactured in 1946 for actor, hunter, sportsman, and personal friend of John Olin, Robert Taylor, this shotgun features a single red bead sight, standard barrel markings and Winchester "WP" proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech, 3 inch chamber, and "SKEET" marked choke. Both sides of the barrel have 1 inch wedges of fine scroll engraving. The receiver is engraved with the factory 42-5 pattern featuring two dogs on the right flushing snipes on the right, and two pointers on the left training on a quail. The attention to detail in the scenes and the tight scroll are hallmarks of Ulrich engraving. The bolt and lifter are polished but not engine turned, as ordered by Taylor. Extra fancy American walnut extension slide handle with double diamond pattern checkering, and pistol grip stock with a Winchester hard rubber grip cap, gold inscription plate on the right side of the stock inscribed "UTT" for Ursla Theiss Taylor, and checkered Winchester Repeating Arms hard rubber buttplate. Robert Taylor married Ursla Theiss in 1954, where upon he sent the shotgun to Winchester to have the inscription plate and inscription done. Stock measurements are: drop at comb 1 1/2 inches; drop at heel 2 3/8 inches; length of pull 13 1/2 inches.

Excellent. 95% original bright polished blue finish remains with some light slide retraction marks on the magazine tube and barrel, and sharp engraving. The highly figured deluxe wood is also excellent with crisp checkering, and small dings throughout. Mechanically excellent. A documented masterpiece of Winchester craftsmanship and excellent example of George Ulrich engraving!