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Rare “Quality C” LC Smith Baker’s Patent Shot Gun, 32” Damascus Steel Barrels, 10- Gauge, Mfg 1883
Guns International #: 100745967 Seller's Inventory #:
Category: LC Smith Shotguns - Hammer Shotguns
Seller's Information
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Seller: DOUBLEGUN PRESERVATION
Member Since: 3/7/12
State: Virginia
Zip: 22207
Country: United States
Phone: (703) 625-4830
Premium Seller
Number of Active Listings: 1
Seller: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
Payment Types Accepted: Certified Check, Postal Money Order, Personal Check
Description:
The iconic line of LC Smith shotguns, and the shooting history that goes with it, started in 1880 with the LC Smith Baker’s Patent Shot Gun. LC Smith produced in Syracuse between 1880 and 1884 approximately 8,300 double-barreled guns. The "Quality C" gun, as described in the LC Smith catalogue and reprinted in Brophy’s L.C. Smith Shotguns (p.35), has “Damascus or Laminated Steel Barrels, 10 or 12 Gauge, Fine English or Very Fine American Walnut Stock, Pistol Grip, Checkered, Finely Engraved .” It cost $80, which was a substantial amount at a time when a skilled machinist made $40 a month. This model of shotgun has a place in the history of LC Smith guns and the manufacture of American sporting arms. Although it is uncertain how many “Quality C “Baker’s Patent “Double-Barrel Breech-Loading Shot Gun(s)“were produced or survived, it is a reasonable assumption that this is one of a very few.
Manufactured in 1883, this gun is properly reconditioned to better preserve it for another 130 years of use by shooters. The natural beauty of the well-figured walnut stock is restored by drawing out petroleum-based oils, which darken and damage wood, and replacing them with natural oils through the application of a hand rubbed stock oil finish. Dents and scratches are steamed and sanded out, as possible without changing the character of the gun, and the checking is re-cut. The exterior of the 32” Damascus steel barrels is refinished in its original brown-on-white using the traditional process of slow-rust-bluing and etching. The bores have moderate pitting, as one would expect of a gun of this period that has not been honed. The receiver has an appropriate level of tarnish of a well cared-for 130 year-old gun. The face of the action, which is absent any pitting, is exceptional for a gun of this period. The engraving on the side plates, tang, trigger plate, and forearm metal is deep. Even the hunting scene on the trigger guard, which rarely survives intact, is distinct.
This fowler has 3” chambers and is choked Full (.030) in the right barrel and Modified (.020) in the left. The wall thicknesses for the right barrel 9” from the muzzle are .051/.047/.052 (top/side/bottom) and in the middle of the barrel are .060/.054/.061 respectively. The wall thicknesses for the left barrel 9” from the muzzle are .051/.053/.052 and in the middle of the barrel are .065/.068/.058, respectively. Inside diameters of the bores 9” from the breech are both .798; the outside diameters at the muzzle are .930 and .928. The gun weighs 11 lbs. Drop at the comb is 2-1/2” and at the heel 3-1/2”. Length of pull to the end of the original hard rubber buttplate is 14”. The cast is 1/8” is on for the left handed shooter, which adds to its rarity. The gun locks up tight. All serial numbers, 9530, match.
The price does not include shipping costs paid by buyer. The inspection period is 7 days from receipt. The shotgun has been fired on trap and 5-stand ranges using low pressure 2-3/4” shells produced for Damascus-barreled shotguns by RST Corporation in Pennsylvania. However, as for any antique or vintage shotgun, and especially one over a hundred and thirty years old, it is recommended that the new owner have it inspected by a professional gunsmith before firing and then only use shells that produce pressures for which the gun was designed. The gun carries a 30-day warrantee, during which Back in Time will have any mechanical problems documented by a professional gunsmith repaired or accept the return of the gun and refund the price of the gun and the return shipping cost. Please do not hesitate to call with questions Stephen Wesbrook, 703-625-4830; Back in Time, LLC -- Preserving late 19th and early 20th Century double shotguns.
SOLD
Antique: Yes