The roller latch on an LC Smith typically denoted a gun with factory installed auto-ejectors, however, it was the policy of Hunter Arms to also fit all graded post-1913 Smith extractor guns(those above Field grade, with the exception of those graded guns made with the Curtis Style "push button" forearm release during the teens); and continuing into the Marlin era, with the roller latch faster. Early graded extractor models will feature the "banjo" style escutcheon, while later madels will feature the oblong shaped escutcheon that is seen here; but the purpose of all gun fitted with a roller latch was to reinforce the fastening of the forearm to the barrels (remember Smith guns without this feature were often found with missing forearms). Prior to 1913, graded extractor guns featured a dogs head bakelite forearm inlay; and at a glance, were easily distinguished from Smith guns having auto ejectors.
