May 12-14, 2026 Firearms & Militaria
Lot #1388:
(C) EXTREMELY RARE HUNTER ARMS L.C. SMITH NO.(GRADE) 2 HAMMERLESS 8 BORE SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/12/2026
According to the Brophy LC Smith book, only 31 8-bores were made in Fulton, 25 of which were the No. 2 grade. Morphy Auctions sold another No. 2 8-bore, serial number 92840, in 2020 which is in the same range as this example (91781). None of these 8-bores were made with auto ejectors, the barrels were 32" and weighed 8 lbs. This barrel weighs precisely that. The browned barrels are made and finished in the chained style Damascus, all of which are believed to have been made for them in Europe. The barrel is stamped at rear of matted rib " HUNTER ARMS CO. MAKERS FULTON NY" The number 2 (grade) is stamped at base of barrels. The water table is stamped with patent dates. Serial number is matching on lower tang, water table, barrels and forearm. Barrel has a single front bead sight. The case color side lock action displays the standard No. 2 grade engraving that features a single partridge within tall grass vignette (page 71) on the left side with border scrolling. The right side vignette appears to be a small long beak bird such as a Godwit (page 179). Other features include dual triggers, a checkered pistol grip walnut stock with cap and a Fulton style butt plate (Page 83 in Houchins book). The checkered splinter forearm features an ebony tip along with the 3/4" inset gutta percha dog head. CONDITIION: Fine. The engraved frame and locks retain approximately 75% plus case color with sharp and delicate engraving. Trigger guard and lower tang have faded grey. The browned chained Damascus barrels are stunning and the bores are mirror bright. Stocks are excellent, solid, crisp checkering exhibiting minor impressions. Mechanically sound. Arguably, in this catalogers opinion, one of the finest 8-bore Smiths in existence.
Length of Pull
13 - 5/8"-, cast off