The L.C. Smith Collectors Association

The L.C. Smith Collectors Association
[ The L.C. Smith Collectors Association ]

Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun

Posted by John Lindly on September 25, 2023, 2:35 pm

I have tried to read up on these here and elsewhere but I’d like to confirm what I think I have learned. Serial number is 71228 with an “F” nearby. I believe this means manufactured in 1899 as a model F - the basic model. No records available. Locks up tight with everything working as intended. I have read here that Elsie coach guns are rare so barrel probably has been cut to 20-inches - someone did a good job. I am not sure what kind of hammers I have? Royal steel barrels that have a “C” under left barrel and “CC” under the right - I am not sure what these letters signify? The other thing that is interesting is there is a 23 engraved on the oval shield or plaque under the buttstock. Is this some sort of rack number? Please see photos. Anything else that you can tell me would be greatly appreciated. Best regards! John

Re: Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun

Posted by Drew Hause on September 25, 2023, 4:23 pm, in reply to "Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun"

John: to date there has not been a documented factory “coach gun”, nor are there any period Hunter Arms’ or dealer advertisements showing a L.C. Smith “coach gun”.

Dr. Jim's Production Records lists a single 10g F grade hammer gun with a barrel of 27". There were 6 12g with 25" barrels. None shorter.
A single hammerless No. 0 12g had 24" barrels. There were no No. 00 12s or 10s with barrels shorter than 26".

The wide gap at the muzzle confirms the barrels have been cut.

We think, but can not verify, that the 'C' frequently found on turn-of-the-century Smith pattern welded and fluid steel barrels is for Crucible Steel, which may have imported the "rough forged tubes" from Belgium.

Re: Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun

Posted by John Lindly on September 25, 2023, 5:17 pm, in reply to "Re: Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun"

Thanks Drew. Still wondering about the engraved number on the bottom. It’s doesn’t seem like a private individual would put this on a gun. However no other markings to suggest company ownership. I am really impressed with how well made this shotgun is. I may have discovered a new addiction.

Re: Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun

Posted by Bob Jones on October 12, 2023, 2:03 pm, in reply to "Re: Confirming info on L. C. Smith coach gun"
Edited by board administrator October 12, 2023, 3:26 pm

I would say it was a police or sheriff dept. inventory gun.

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