The L.C. Smith Collectors Association
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    Re: general information Archived Message

    Posted by revdocdrew on December 2, 2006, 1:59 pm, in reply to "general information "

    What a wonderful legacy!
    Several issues:
    1. It probably started with 2 1/2" chambers.
    2. It probably started tightly choked and with modern shells could very likely benefit from opening the chokes depending on your intended use (?IC/Mod or Lt Mod/Imp Mod for grouse.) No reason not to make the gun right for you.
    3. It's probably past due for it's 80 yr check and clean
    4. The 80 year old wood MIGHT benefit from reinforcing around the side plates and the head of the stock to prevent or repair any tiny cracks.
    5. You should limit your loads to nothing more than 7/8 oz 1200 fps or less target loads (even if you have the chambers lengthened) BUT there are lots of options today for 2 1/2" low pressure shells:
    Polywad 'Vintager' www.polywad-shotgun-shells.com 800-998-0669
    Eley subsonic/low recoil http://eleyshotshells.com 512-821-9953
    ARMUSA 'Vintage' http://www.armusa-performance.com 281-381-7773
    Kent www.firearmservice.com 512-821-9953
    RST www.rstshells.com 570-553-1651
    WestleyRichards http://www.westleyrichards.com/gun/ammo_shot.php
    6. It's likely to have more drop than a more modern gun that you've been shooting regularly and will require a more 'erect' head position (which is not a bad thing) BUT you may have a difficult time trying to go back and forth between this SxS and a modern O/U or Auto. It might be worth getting professional instruction a time or two when you start.
    7. Treat this treasure right, and YOUR grandchildren will enjoy it also!
    Let us know what part of the country you're from and we could recomend some doublegun specialist smiths.

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