March 1-2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2018
This is an L.C. Smith Hunter Arms Fulton, New York Trap Grade. This exact pattern gun can be seen on pages 252 and 253 in the book "L.C. Smith" by Houchins. This is a boxlock shotgun with false sideplates engraved with trap shooters and light floral edge work. The base is engraved in a floral pattern. Right side of frame features a single shotgunner shooting a pheasant. Stamped "L.C. SMITH" on both sides of frame. Top of frame is engraved in floral scroll with top tang safety. Features double set triggers, blued trigger guard, straight English type walnut stock with checkering. Example pictured in book on page 250 shows the straight stock with exact pattern of checkering. Straight stocks were far more scarce than pistol grip. Has a splinter forend with engraving around release and base with ebony inset. The barrels are equipped with automatic ejectors. Mirror bores. Retains 95% of the expertly reapplied blued finish with sharp markings. Frame retains approximately 30% case colors with balance nickeled out. Stocks are excellent with no cracks, sharp checkering, some finish added and a period solid red rubber recoil pad. Locks up tight and solid. The Trap Grade was a quality one grade that replaced the pre-1913 No. 1. It has Hunter's Crown steel barrels, discontinued in 1939, cost had risen to $77. A total of 3,355 Trap Grades were sold between 1913 to 1939 but only 288 in 16 gauge, the second rarest behind the 10 gauge at 25 guns made.
Barrel Wall Thickness
.042", .040"
Choke
Improved Modifed, Cylinder
Internal Bore Diameter
.658", .660"