L.C. Smith value?

D

Doubleought

New member
Hello,
Recently acquired an L C Smith hammer model in 12 Ga. It's in pretty neglected condition, but serviceable. It has one broken firing pin, the left hammer is not original, has a couple of small dents in the barrels which are otherwise in good shape. Bluing is almost completely gone.

Ser. No. cross-reference indicates it was made in 1896 or 97. "F" by ser. no. indicates "field grade"?

Anyone know if it's worth anything, or do I just have a nice wall hanger?

Recently found this forum. Looking foreward to learning a lot, and sharing what I can. Thanks in advance.

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It's worth exactly what someone will pay for it,00. Most of the Smiths that you see are somewhat workworn, but in much better shape than yours.What shape is the wood? How about rust, inside and out?

I'd get it checked out by a competent gunsmith.If the bbls are not Damascus and all the parts are there, it could be restored to like new condition. While not cheap, this would return a fine old shotgun to use and up the value big time.

If the bbls are Damascus, it can be tubed, with titanium liners in the next smaller gauge installed,but it's expensive. Usually not worth it...
 
The gun you have may be worth restoring. Old hammer guns are back in vogue with Clays shooters. Organizations like the Vintagers hold shoots for side by side guns only.

You should have the gun appraised by a competent gunsmith who deals with old doubles.

You might try the following website:

www.gunshop.com

Try asking on their bulletin board, or perhaps look for a dealer near you who would be able to advise you on the gun.

Guns of the caliber of L C Smith with damascus barrels are not junk, many are still shot with blackpowder loads.

My $.02 as usual

Geoff Ross
 
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