L.C. Smith Featherweight Field Grade 20 Gauge Side By Side Shotgun, C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,085

WOA# WY240311WP013

Make: L.C. Smith Gun Co.

Model: Featherweight Field Grade

Serial Number: FWS51466

Year of Manufacture: 1940s

Gauge: 20GA 2 3/4” Chamber

Action Type:  Side-Lock Break-Open Side by Side Double Shotgun with Extractors.

Markings: The bottom of the frame is marked, “FWS51466 FIELD” The sides are marked. “L.C. Smith” The forend is marked, “S51466” The barrel is marked, “ARMOR STEEL / S51466/ FIELD 2 ¾ IN CHAMBER” with proof marks. The top of the barrel is marked, “L.C. SMITH 20 GA – FIELD FULTON N.Y. U.S.A.”

Barrel Length: 28”.

Choke: Fixed Extra Full, Modified.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a white bead set on top of the serrated rib with a second smaller white bead further down the rib.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stocks are two piece smooth walnut with a capped semi-pistol grip, straight comb, splinter forend and serrated plastic buttplate. There are some faint scratches and pressure dent throughout. The checkering is smooth. The LOP measures 14″ from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. There are some minor chips under the frame. Overall the stocks are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued, Steel.

Finish Originality: Refinished.

Bore Condition:  Both bores are bright with some faint scratch lines. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate at a 9/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The case color on the receiver has been mostly worn/polished off, The blued parts have mostly turned plum. The screw heads are lightly worn from use. The action is lightly worn  Overall, this shotgun is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly.  We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:  None.

Our Assessment: The L.C. Smith Featherweight Field Grade 20 Gauge Side By Side Shotgun is a classic American firearm known for its quality craftsmanship and elegant design. Produced by the L.C. Smith Gun Company, this shotgun exemplifies the fine workmanship and attention to detail that characterized American gunmaking in the early 20th century. As a “Featherweight” model, this shotgun is designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, making it well-suited for field use, including hunting upland game birds such as quail, pheasant, and grouse. The 20 gauge chambering strikes a balance between power and recoil, providing sufficient firepower while maintaining manageable recoil for most shooters.

Overall, the L.C. Smith Featherweight Field Grade 20 Gauge Side By Side Shotgun represents a classic example of American shotgun design and remains highly regarded among collectors and enthusiasts for its timeless elegance, reliable performance, and historical significance in the realm of American firearms. -R.E.

L.C. Smith Featherweight Field Grade 20 Gauge Side By Side Shotgun, C&R
L.C. Smith Featherweight Field Grade 20 Gauge Side By Side Shotgun, C&R