Posted by USMC Armorer on September 24, 2008, 12:48 pm, in reply to "Something new every day"
Just when we think we have seen it all- of interest also is the spelling of Armour-a bit of British influence, as in colour and humour perhaps? Have re-read my Dr. Charles Norris book from the early 1930's and he mentions several times his L.C. Smith shotguns, and endorsed them with high praise. This is the same Gentleman who willed one of his fine Purdey doubles to grouse writer the late George B. Evans. Dr. Drew, I know of a high grade Smith used for doubles at trap by former ATA champion Ned Lilley- his son John and I met years ago- John shot international style Trap for the Army's MTU team based at Ft. Benning I believe. His dad's Smith was donated to the ATA Museum-and is still there. Perhaps they would allow you to inspect it and report the details! John said it had ejectors, single trigger and a ventilated rib and was a 12 gauge. Where I purchased my Elsie Grade 2 12 gauge recently the also had a later series Elsie 12- 32" barrels, ejectors, double triggers, small forearm and a ventilated rib. Were ventilated ribs commonly found on the post 1913 series Smiths. Dr. Drew, your fine and considerate replies have given me the fever I guess- my membership application is in the mail system, and I just e-mailed with a gentleman who has a older Grade O 12 bore with 28 inch Damascus barrels-restored by Turnbull I believe he said. I bought my Grade 2 1907 era Smith from a area dealer, so inspection and FFL shipping was not of concern, if this Smith was built before 1896-verified by serial numbers-can it be shipped directly to me instead of through a inter-state dealer arrangement? And is insured UPS or Registered Mail the best way. Thanks.