Hello: I am looking at a vintage 1938 [serial no. 167,0xx] L.C. Smith [Hunter Arms].Field Grade not FW. 16 Ga. 26in. barrels. Chokes unknown until I go back with a gauge, I am hoping ic/mod or cyl/ic.! Double Triggers and Extractors.
Questions:
1. Should the original 1938 butt plate be flat blued steel[overall 85%] with the middle area horizontally grooved except at the heel and toe? No verbiage or writing on it.
2. The barrel and trigger guard bluing is still good but needs s very light buff @ 85% overall, case coloring is a solid 75% and still very strong in the front areas of the locks...no real obvious abusive wear. Bore and mechanics are good, flat on face-lever strong @ 5:10. The checkering is still 90% but the buttstock has been either steel wooled or worn down to the wood there but no real dings or dents or scratches. The muzzle is slightly scratched from the old man using it as a crutch to get around his house [explains finish wear on the buttstock???]
3. I can get it for $450, is this price...a steal...normal...or above average. I am a college student and please I need some L.C.SMITH opinions. Also the 2 3/4in. cartridges were standard by then, weren't they?
THANK YOU
H
