Thanks Doug and Emmet. As you said, I guess the raised,flat pigeon style rib with center bead and the large beavertail forend were the reason for the "trap" description.It also has a Hawkins pad that looked very original? The S- designation was on the triggerguard. Does it have any significance? Now that my curiosity has been piqued I may have to check the factory records....
Hi Terry:
The 'S' engraved on the trigger guard behind the single screw as a prefix to the serial number would be standard up to the end of production on the graded guns .....The 'S' signifies it was built by the Marlin owned L.C. Smith Gun Company after December 1945.
The butt pads could be ordered on special order guns or added by the retailer per customer specifications, which was commonly done. A Factory letter from Cody costs $70.00 USD and is well worth the investment in my opinion.
When Marlin took over L.C. Smith in December 1945, the Ideal Grade sold for $67.00 USD, when the factory closed in 1950 the Ideal Grade sold for $138.00 USD.
Sounds like you found a nice gun, I hope you can work out a deal and make it your own.
Best Regards,
**According to the books, the "Trap Option" was only available on certain grade guns and was only offered for certain years.........
