Home Forums Birds & Dogs Shotguns Quality of L.C. Smith 1946 46-50 ?

Hey Guys,

I am looking at an LC Smith, 20 gauge, which was made during the period of 1946-1950. Based on the serial number, which starts with an FWS, I believe it was made in 1947. The gun is in 98%+ condition.

Other than what I have checked online, I know nothing about the L.C. Smith guns.

Does anybody know whether the guns they made in this period are regarded as good quality? Low quality? Iffy quality?

I am not a collector. I just want a shooter, for occasional 5 stand.

Are these particular guns solid? Or, something to stay away from. (I have heard that the wood on L.C. Smiths is often questionable, leading to cracks behind the sidelock plates).

This is a Lightweight Field 20 gauge. Price seems pretty high at $1,500. But again, I have no experience.

All info rmation and advice is welcome.

Thanks,

Mannyrock

The good news is a 1947 gun would have 2-3/4" chambers as opposed to earlier Hunter guns with 2-1/2" chambers. That said, you would still be advised to shoot low pressure shells because of the lack of wood in the head of the stock. Most likely the gun is choked tight, so it may not be suitable for 5 stand without choke alteration. Generally speaking fit and finish is not as good as Hunter era guns, but should serve well for your intended purpose.
A 98% gun is certainly worth the price.

Thanks very much for the info.

Mannyrock

The Featherweight Field models are very nice guns. Does it have auto ejectors? Is there a single high rib instead of the low matted rib? Those would be extra options that might help justify the price.

I've never handled or shot an Elsie of any vintage (and I mean from 1902 to 1952) that had been shot loose. The design is solid.

Regarding the stock, I'd check for any major cracks and pass on guns that aren't pretty sound around the head of the stock. Minor cracks can be fixed by a competent stock doctor (ask on www.doublegunshop.com/BBS). But even if the stock head is sound, I'd have a stocker glass that area to prevent any future cracking. That IS the weak spot on Elsies. Back in the day when stock work was cheap, it wasn't so important. Sadly, a whole new buttstock might cost as much as the shotgun now.....

Mike,
The high (SSP) rib was standard on Marlin-era guns, ejectors add $500 to the value.

Check out this web site. Charlie has some real nice guns in your price range and these English guns are a better gun all the way round.

http://www.hillrodandgun.com/index.php