Re: Monte Carlo Stocks and Vent Rib Barrels
Although not common, Hunter Arms offered the raised comb Monte Carlo style stock option well prior to 1900, as one of our members owns a very rare and original 16-bore A-1 Grade with just such a stock. Such stocks were always special request items; and I've personally observed several pre-1913 Smith guns with such stocks. Much more rare than Smith stocks with a raised Monte Carlo comb are Monte Carlo style stocks with a raised cheek. As Drew noted stock configurations, as well as stock treatments (rubber pads, checkered and skeleton butts, etc.) are not recorded within the shipping ledgers; but Monte Carlo stocks and vent ribs once (available) were certainly available in combination on special request from the purchaser.
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