Inherited This LC Smith
 

I joined this board to do research on a Parker 20 gauge that was passed down to me. Will post that up on the main board when I take some good pics. Anyways, I also inherited this old LC Smith 20 gauge sxs. Serial number 107066 matching. It has damascus barrels so my understanding is no modern shells. The base around the left firing pin is damaged. This is an family gun and will keep going downline, what would you guys do with a gun like this? Display only?

Struggling to post pics off my Ipad

as with any old gun- have it checked by someone who knows old doubles-

if it is in safe shooting condition - on face- no major pitting and good wall thickness

call RST - get some shells and enjoy the family history

A regular framed Damascus 20g smith would be relatively hard to come these days.

I was going to say the same thing Brian. This is a one of a kind gun.

Matt, Here is a good place to learn more about your L.C. Smith

http://lcsmith.org/

Thanks for the link.

I don't believe this is a one of a kind, all the familys real good guns went to collectors.Not sure why I thought it was a 20 guage but looks more like a 12 after a second look.

X3 on what Brian said. If it checks out with a gunsmith, it could be quite desirable.

Matt, this appears to be a O grade made in1901. The grade should be stamped on the water table below the serial #. There were 4150 O grades produced that year with Damascus barrels so rarity is not an issue unless the barrels are 24" or 32". As others have stated, have the barrels checked and shoot low pressure shells. As far as the damaged area around the firing pin, if your gun has firing pin bushings they are easily screwed out and replaced. I have several "Elsies" and Parkers with laminate or damascus barrels and I shoot them all. Good shooting to you in the new year.

0 grades are not rare, but 0 grade 20 gauges are rare.