The L.C. Smith Collectors Association

The L.C. Smith Collectors Association
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Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008

Posted by Nathan Knarreborg on March 11, 2021, 6:02 pm

My wife recently inherited this shotgun (SN16008). I'm interested in any info and I can provide additional pictures if needed.

Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008

Posted by David Williamson on March 12, 2021, 7:39 am, in reply to "Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008"

Nathan, you have a very early Syracuse L.C. Smith made in August 1886. The serial numbers for the Syracuse line of hammerless guns started at 16000 in August of 1886, I own serial number 16000 which like yours is a Quality 2. Mine is a 10 gauge with 32" barrels, has no makers name on top rib, does not have L.C. Smith on the side plate. Looking at your pictures it does not show an extra pin (screw post) on the side plate, which on mine is for a sear spring (picture below)

Inside of lock showing sear spring.

From what I can see, yours does not have this sear spring located where mine is, also your gun looks like it was made without a safety.
The butt plate showing Trap Gun at the bottom was an advertising ploy to show these guns were good at the Traps as well as in the Fields.

I cannot find on our Members Only site the patent date to tell you what that was for but I believe it was for the "J" spring that holds the fore arm on.

Back in 1886 this gun was selling for $80.00

From the looks of your gun it needs a good cleaning in and out, and if you are not familiar with taking one apart I would have a reputable gunsmith that KNOWS L.C. Smiths do it.

Good luck with your fine gun.

Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008

Posted by Tom Garver on March 12, 2021, 4:46 pm, in reply to "Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008"

Nathan, I was waiting for David to respond as he is our LCSCA guru on this era of guns. What a great inheritance. It is amazing what continues to come out of the closets and attics. The era of guns in many opinions were some of the best built American classics. Unfortunately there are no records remaining in this era but David is always looking to update his data base. Hopefully you and your wife will enjoy your inheritance and consider a membership in the LC Smith Collectors Assn. Regards, Tom

Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008

Posted by Nathan Knarreborg on March 15, 2021, 5:13 pm, in reply to "Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008"

David, thanks for interesting information. The gun does have a safety, but was just out of frame in the original posted pictures.
I'm currently searching for a gunsmith that is knowledgeable about L.C Smiths to get it cleaned and hopefully some photos of the sidelocks.

Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008

Posted by Nathan Knarreborg on March 15, 2021, 5:32 pm, in reply to "Re: Looking for info on 12 ga hammerless SN16008"

Tom, I agree these early guns are incredible and have a fascinating history.

I joined LCSCA after buying a 1939 16ga field grade LCS, which I use for pheasant hunting. LCSA is a great community with a ton of knowledge.

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