This is a fine representative example of a World War II U.S. contract Stevens Model 520-30 trench shotgun with the correct bayonet lug adapter and ventilated six-hole handguard. 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 markings. Choke gauges at cylinder. The left of the receiver is stamped "MOD. 520-30" ahead of "U.S.", and the correct "P" proof above an ordnance bomb 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. Includes a correct "1918" dated Remington M1917 bayonet marked "RRR/123" on the metal end of the handle, and with an olive drab green leather scabbard with metal ends.

Fine, retains 60% original blue finish with areas turning to smooth brown patina and some scattered freckling, with defined edges in the metal. Wood is also fine with some light scratches and handling marks, a minor crack visible on the left of the wrist behind the action, and defined edges. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet and scabbard are both very fine. Looks like this example could have seen combat!