L.C. Smith Ideal Grade 20 GA 2 3/4” 25.5″ Chambers SXS Shotgun, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,226.00
LSB#: LSB251109DC167
Make: L.C. Smith
Model: Ideal Grade
Serial Number: 71580
Year of Manufacture: 1912-1950 -C&R
Gauge: 20 GA with 2 3/4” Chambers
Action Type: Break Action, Double Barreled Shotgun with Extractor & dual triggers.
Markings: The top of the right barrel is marked “-L.C. SMITH Ideal GRADE-“, the top of the left is marked “HUNTER ARMS CO INC M’F’R’S FULTON, NY, U.S.A.”. The bottom of each barrel is marked “LONDON STEEL”. The bottom of the receiver is marked “LONG RANGE”. The water table is marked with the serial number “FWE 71580”. The inside of the forend iron is marked with the serial number “FWE71580 / I”. Each side plate is marked “L.C. SMITH”.
Barrel Length: 32”
Choke: Fixed: Full/Full.
Sights / Optics: This shotgun has a brass bead fixed to the front of the rib. The top of the rib has fine serrations for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with splinter forend, capped pistol grip, straight comb, and buttplate is missing. There are scratches and compression marks throughout. The checkering is well defined. There are chips and cracks on the wrist and expanding from tangs. The LOP measures 11.75? and 12..75? from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate respectively. Overall, the stocks are in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is plastic fouling in the bores. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 7.5 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 75% of its metal blued and case hardened finish. The balance of the finish shows handling and storage wear. There are scratches and thinning throughout. There is thinning on the muzzle. THe blue finish on the barrels has a light finish. The receiver case color is mostly in the white. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock solidly to the frame. 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 Ideal Grade occupies a respected place among American side-by-side shotguns, representing Hunter Arms’ balance of quality materials, hand-fitted construction, and practical field design. Built with London Steel barrels and the distinctive sidelock action that defined the L.C. Smith line, the Ideal Grade was marketed as a dependable sporting gun for serious upland and waterfowl hunters. In 20 gauge, these guns are especially appealing for their lighter handling characteristics and graceful proportions, particularly when paired with longer barrels intended for smooth, deliberate shooting.
This example shows honest age and use consistent with a working shotgun from the early 20th century. The barrels retain a good portion of their original blue with expected thinning, and the bores remain bright with moderate fouling noted. The sidelock action locks up solidly, and the dual triggers function as intended. The walnut stocks exhibit wear, including cracks at the wrist and tangs and the absence of the buttplate, all of which are clearly visible and typical considerations for a gun of this vintage. Overall, this Ideal Grade presents as a sound, representative example of a classic American side-by-side that retains strong mechanical integrity and historical character despite visible cosmetic wear. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -N.P
