When Marlin bought L.C. Smith in 1945 the company's name was changed to L.C. Smith Gun Co. The prefix was FW S (no more regular frame guns made). These guns were true L.C. Smiths. In the 60's early 70's Marlin Gun Co. re-introduced the L.C. Smith gun, the prefix then was FW M, there were some problems in the very beginning doing their case hardening because all the old timers were either retired or had passed on. The Field Grade had a Simmons rib made out of aluminum that was epoxied on and used a different bluing process not rust bluing. The other model a Deluxe used a Simmons but this was a steel rib. Both were ventilated.
The best in my opinion were the pre 1913 guns. Also to note that the A3 when it first came out in 1894 was the most expensive gun made here or abroad. There was only a total of 19 made, 17-12 gauges and 2-20 gauges.
My favorite is the A2 first variation with the stepped lock plates.
These early Smith's very all very well made and very few are seen with the crack behind the locks. Guns equipped with the Hunter One Trigger had even less wood between the locks and it is a wonder how they held up at all if you have ever seen the inside of one.
Last edited by David Williamson; 01/11/18 10:03 AM.
