Winchester 42

I would appreciate some opinions based on experience. Recently, I purchased a Winchester model 42 (1954). I've wanted one of these for several years but I wanted a shooter/hunter not collection queen. The one I found is perfect for my needs. It shows signs of use but has been very well taken care of.
My problem is I cannot find much information about the gun. I have not had a chance to fire it yet. Rounds do not load well into the magazine and are difficult to make stay retained. That does not sound right but it's a fact. I have difficulty getting rounds to stay in. With a little manipulation the rounds will stay retained and feed through the action when cycled but will easily "squirt" out. I can find very little information on troubleshooting this fine little shotgun and I do not want to take or send it to a gunsmith that is not thoroughly familiar with Winchester 12s and 42s.
Does any forum member have any experience with this situation? I am interested in finding a detailed illustrated parts breakdown and good assembly/disassembly instructions. I am mechanically competent and capable of doing the tear down and repair but would like to learn more about the shotgun and cause of this problem. Thank you.

single stack said:

This is common. Don't load the gun upside down.
Hold it upright when loading. Gravity is your friend.
It helps the shell find the catch.
Model 42's are great guns. Mine is a shooter not a safe Queen.
Have fun!

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Thank you, Single stack
I experimented on my own and found the right side up feed method does work.

jfurlong said:

If you do need work done, Simmons in Olathe, KS worked miracles on my 96 year old model 12.

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Thank you.

rcmodel said:

I have the factory repair manual for the Model 42.

It says under 'malfunction':

'Double-feeds or two shells feeding into chamber at once.'

Probable cause.
3. Cartridge cut-off arch up to far.

Suggested remedy.
'Bend down arch on cartridge cut-off slightly, until it functions properly.'

rc

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Thank you.

Tom Held said:

Check the magazine and see if somene has put some sort of homemade plug in there that might be compressing the spring too much. Are you using 3" or 2 1/2 inch shells? I have a couple of original model 42 plugs and can send you the correct dimensions.

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So far I've only tried 2 1/2' shells there is no magazine plug. The gun was very dirty but no rust or signs of much wear. Thanks.

Red Wind said:

Perhaps this thread from TFL will provide some insight:

http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=494594

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Thanks.

Sniper66 said:

Find a good gunsmith. I've purchased a number of older guns and I always took them to my old buddy Doug who was a fine gunsmith. It was amazing to me what he could accomplish by cleaning, adjusting, polishing interior parts, and, occasionally replace a part. Sadly, my friend died recently so I'm in search of a new gunsmith. Good ones are rare, especially ones who can work on older guns. So, search for a good gunsmith. It will save you lots of grief.

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Thank you, Sniper 66. I appreciate your advice. A good gunsmith is a very rare critter around here.

jack_burton said:

congrats on an awesome purchase, as far as the malfunction goes I can only recommend a good gunsmith I send all my old winchesters to T&D Metal works( they have a website you can look up) they seem to know their stuff when it comes to old guns especially old Winchesters good luck/

side note. the model 42 is a potentially high dollar shotgun I do not recommend taking too much apart unless it is your profession.

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Thank you, Jack. I may send it to them soon.

oneounceload said:

The cheapest I have seen 42s selling for is north of $1500 and those were not in collector grade, so if a good cleaning does not resolve your issue, then the advice about a GOOD gunsmith is warranted.

You might also want to try emailing Bruce Buck who is a noted gun writer/reviewer who also owns and loves his 42s. He is also known as The Technoid and might be able to answer or direct you to a proper person.

He can be reached through Shotgun Report at:

http://shotgunreport.com/

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Thank you. It's seems that a thorough flush out with Breakfree and cleaning has improved my problem. It is in excellent condition with virtually no signs of wear.
I doubt I'll fire it more than 100 rounds a year.