Tom,
I really like the looks of that gun, based on the pictures Geoff has posted for you. The raised, flat-topped rib is especially nice. The bluing looks like a fine English rust blue, and the case colors look to be well done also. The receiver sculpting is just absolutely perfect, with the accent cuts around the fences that flow into the rib. VERY NICE! Much better than the RBL's skimpy rib.
S&W definitely needs to consider another name. Something like the "Smith & Wesson Light Field Gun" on top of the rib, with a Grade I (or II,III, etc.)marking on the flats of the receiver. Leave the barrels UNMARKED except for chamber length and gauge!
Also, as I stated previously, they definitely need to offer a semi-pistol grip option, regardless of single or double triggers. Every importer of Spanish guns has nothing but straight grips. They are everywhere. Look at the American Classics (Parker, Fox, L.C.Smith, Lefever, Win. M21) for guidance here; they all had small-circumference, semi-pistol grips as standard issue and are still very desirable in the market.
I would strongly consider fixed chokes initially in something like a light modified/modified offering. Choke tubes aren't nearly as importnat on this type of gun as many would have you believe. Take heed; the classic simplicity of fixed chokes has great appeal in this market!
This gun has great potential. The 20 gauge is a smart initial offering, with a 16 being a savvy second offering. Once more, they should forget the 26" barrel lenth and offer 28" and 30" instead. Personally, I would love a 30" 16 ga. with a semi-pistol grip and a small semi-beavertail.
I wish them huge success with this.
JR
Last edited by John Roberts; 11/25/06 01:13 PM.
