L.C. Smith Doubles

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knoxvette1

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As part of a group purchase of upper end and collectible long guns I have acquired 2 L.C.Smith doubles. From what I can find out one is an Ideal Grade 12ga. mfg. in 1918 and in excellent condition. The second is a 20 ga. field grade mfg. in 1913. Any thoughts as to where I can go to determine the worth of these 2 fine shotguns.
 
First place I would go would be shotgunworld.com. There are some real "experts" on that particular forum. One of them goes by the screen name of "Natty Bumpo" - he really knows his side-by-sides, particularly American made doubles. Good luck. It sounds like you have a couple of fine guns.
 
The Field grade if plain would be about $800 at 85% up to $1500 at 98% because it is 20 ga and is 30% stronger than a 12ga.
The Ideal grade in the same condition range would be $1500-$3000. At least that is what I been seeing in Northern Calif., Nevada and AZ. I bought an 85% 16ga. 1936 Field Grade recently for $700 and thought it quite the bargain!
 
Ive seen some owner proclaimed "nice" Elsies that would have been perfect for a paperweight. In my experience most of the Smiths I run into are shootable basketcases.

They are not in the same league collectorwise as the Parkers and Foxes......yet. Their time will come.

The unfortuante thing with all the best American doubles is that everyone thinks they are worth more than they are. Funny enough that field grade you have is probably worth more than what might be thought just because its a 20 ga. Subgauges are commanding tremendous premiums at least in my area.

Anyway try shotgun world and gunbroker and see how much they are selling for.
 
The BB over at shootingsportsman.com has some Elsies fans that can help you out. Unfortunately, you may have to listen to a couple talk about how THEIR shotguns are better. Still worth the trip though.
 
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