doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Ithaca NID 5E trap, my first double!

Hello All,
I'm new to doubles. I've always enjoyed the working pieces of art but hadn't jumped in. Well, I couldn't pass this opportunity up.

A good friend is starting to thin out his collection. He brought out an Ithaca NID 5E Trap last weekend.1927 serial number, 32" raised rib, single trigger, just ticked all the boxes for me. The metal is in great shape with some color remaining. He'd bought it as a project gun 20 odd years ago , cheap due to a mutilated stock. He had a local stock maker build a nice custom wood set (we shoot near identical dimensions). He had it choke tubed (I know, sacrilege to collectors, but nice for a clay shooter).

Once I was done drooling he tossed out the bait, "it's for sale, go give it a try". He didn't even have to set the hook! let's just say I fell in love and leave it at that!!! It's one of the most natural pointing target guns I've ever held. The price he gave me was significantly less than I expected. Needless to say, she followed me home.

I've been out a few times now and my usual squad is starting to wish I'd bring my OU out again. There's nothing like a gun that makes you smile every time you take it out. Can't wait for the next helice shoot.

So my question is: Can I get some gunsmith recommendations to service this wonderful old girl?

Second question: How do I post images (if possible)?

Congratulations. NIDs are about the pinnacle of everyday using American guns. I actually haven’t seen many that needed service, a broken firing pin or two, and a broken stock or two. They are a tough design.

A couple really good gunsmiths pop in here now and then, James Flynn, Dennis Potter, Steve Bertram, there are others, but, you can wait until you have an issue to ask. The old guard is turning over, the guys I used are all retired, or, worse, unfortunately. If the stock was off the gun for replacement, I’d guess it got some lube at that time and you are OK using it for a bit.

Somewhere about the place is a picture tutorial, if you are stuck you can email a few to me to post for you. tedjs@usfamily.net

Welcome to the abyss.

Best,
Ted

Brian,
Welcome to the forum, enjoy that double in good health!
Karl

Thanks guys.
The stock was last off when it was shaped about 15 years ago. I'm so used to tearing down my OU comp guns every year for service I just thought a little preventive maintenance might be in order.

I'm beginning to understand how addictive doubles can be. Starting to look at upland field guns already!

The gentleman I bought this from is bringing a 20 bore hammer gun tomorrow.

Taking a stock off an NID is considerably more complex then taking one off an O/U! It’s not a simple thru bolt that you unscrew and pull the stock off! It takes a bit of skill, knowledge and correctly fitted screwdrivers. Research it and you’ll probably decide to use the services of a skilled double gunsmith. Wishing you the best. Grade 5 NID’s are beautiful and scarce. Enjoy your prize!

You have a fine gun for shooting. Once it had to be restocked the collector value was greatly diminished, if not gone completely. Use a good smith from those listed above. Buggered screws are an eyesore and will bug you to death.

The choke tubes did the same thing. But, the OP actually wants to shoot it, so, it is all good.

Best,
Ted

Ted, I am one of those owners who think all their guns are meant to be shot. Even my high grade guns get used and even hunted with. Even if this gun was cherry I would shoot it. As it is I think it should be an excellent gun for shooting and enjoyment. Altering a gun is not the end of the world many seem to think. I am not saying spray paint it black but guns were made to be shot. Used but not abused. My .410 pigeon grade 42 has killed almost 1,000 Dove so far and I hope to kill another thousand before I am done hunting with it. What is the point of owning a fine gun and never shooting it. Might as well collect stamps.

I’ve got guns with choke tubes. I’ve got one gun I put ‘em in. There are guns that people buy for the same reason they might buy several ounces of gold-to hold, and dispose of when the market goes higher. Same with cars, or land, or, whatever. It isn’t me. My only point was if the gun isn’t a collector, the OP was on the right track. Go shoot it.

There are guys who collect stamps. Or art. Whatever.

Best,
Ted

Yep, I bought it with every intention of shooting it regularly. I didn't pay collector money and the alterations suit my intended use. Bonus is it's pretty and starts conversations at the club.

I'm finding I shoot it every bit as well as my OU, didn't expect that.