Here we present another gem, fresh from the time capsule!
LC Smith reportedly produced around 26,000 Ideal Grade shotguns; they are rare, and made to very exacting standards. This example, serial #879XX, should have left the factory in 1925, and retains a very high level of condition. Mechanically excellent, this gun weighs seven pounds fourteen ounces and balances about 1-1/4" ahead of the hinge pin. Length of pull is 14" from the factory butt plate to the front trigger, with drop of 2-9/16 at the heel and 1-1/2" at the comb. The 30" extractor equipped "London Steel" barrels ring true, have bright, shiny 0.729" bores, 2-3/4" chambers and 0.040" choke restrictions on both sides. This would make a great duck gun! The barrel finish is just beginning to thin in some areas, and their exterior has only minor nicks and scattered scratches. These barrels do not appear to have been filed or polished since they left the factory, as evidenced by the crisp rib matting and lettering at the breech end. The barrel set locks up tight and crisp to the action, leaving the top lever just to the right of center.
The walnut stock and fore end have beautiful grain figure, crisp checkering and retain pride over the metal at most points of inletting. There is some shrinkage at the right lower stock horn, leaving the metal slightly proud at that point. The stock and fore end fit tight and flush and are crack free. The finish appears original, with scattered small pressure and handling marks, and small scattered areas where the varnish has worn through. Blacking on the fore end iron and trigger guard is slightly worn, as seen in the photos. Frame case colors are still beautiful and very even over the exterior, with just a bit of staining on the bottom of the action and edges of the standing breeches, and a worn spot on the back of the top lever; Protected areas retain vibrant case colors.
Here is your opportunity to acquire a handsome, functional, and reasonably priced LC Smith Ideal Grade. Collectors and enthusiasts both would be proud to own and shoot this gun!
