That style lock was used from 1883 to sometime in 1897. After that it was a 6 pin lock, the 6th pin is taking the place of the block that the short leg of the mainspring rested on.

If the serial number is below 26,500 it should have L.C. Smith Maker Syracuse, N.Y. and would be from around 1889.

These were very well made, excellent wood, fine checkering even on the Qlty F (24 lpi). If from around that time period would have the vase shaped ebony tipped for-end.

Look at the way the receiver is milled out in the leg section to accept the bar action mainspring.

Make sure to post pictures of your fix.

Last edited by JDW; 08/10/16 05:39 PM.
David