I just purchased a 10 gauge hammer gun, S/N: 11411. According to the information here, it was made in 1919, but I was under the impression that barrels stamped "L.C. Smith, Maker. Syracuse, NY" were older than that. It has 32" Stub twist barrels, F marked on the receiver below the S/N. S/N also appears on barrel set and trigger guard.
Also seeking opinions on the barrels of this gun. They ring nicely, but are moderately pitted inside. I did clean up the bores with 600 grit and 0000 steel wool in conjunction with CLP, then did some firing with careful micrometer measurements taken at 8 points on the barrels before firing and after each shot (Bismuth #2 1-1/4 oz 3-3/4 dram eq). No changes in any measurements. There seems to be a lot of conflicting opinions on shooting twist steel barrels, and also some wisdom suggesting that there's a big difference between quality guns like LC and Parker versus cheap Belgian guns and the like. I intend to hunt pheasant, goose and turkey using the Bismuth loads and some 1-1/8 oz lite loads from RST. Will be putting another 50+ shells through it with welding gloves and glasses before it goes afield without those things, but also seeking expert opinions on the safety of using this (at least) 94 year old gun. Thanks!