Manufactured in 1942, this shotgun is believed to have been acquired as part of the 1942 "blanket procurement program", a U.S. government initiative to scour commercial and civilian sources for new and used shotguns, of which the government had a mighty need; in addition to their versatility as training tools for aerial gunners, many were issued as primary armament to home front defensive units (like the "State Guard" units acting in lieu of federalized National Guard units or security forces at vital industrial establishments) and were also given to police and militia forces in lieu of weapons that could be recalled for Army issue. The accepted shotguns typically show a combination of standard commercial markings and hand-stamped inspection and approval markings, with this example having a "P" stamped on the chamber and receiver, "flaming bomb" on the barrel, and "US" on the receiver, in addition to the standard (matching serialized) barrel markings and roll-stamped receiver game bird scenes. The forearm and pistol grip are both checkered, with a serrated Ithaca buttplate and a 14 inch length of pull.

Very fine, with 85% plus of the original blue finish, showing light scratches and dings overall, along with dings/scuffs around the muzzle. The forearm is fine, with some dents and scratches, while the buttstock shows multiple repaired breaks and chips at the wrist and toe, areas of sanding and filler, and scattered scratches. Mechanically excellent.