*SOLD* Hunter Arms L.C. Smith Field 20ga 25" *ECONOMY SxS SHOTGUN OF ITS TIME*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

Between 1913 and 1945, the Hunter Arms Company in Fulton, New York, played a central role in redefining and standardizing L.C. Smith shotgun production. A major shift occurred in 1913, when the company reorganized its grading system, replacing numerical designations with names such as "Field," "Ideal," and "Specialty," with grades clearly marked on the shotgun’s water table and barrels. The structural design across all grades remained consistent, but the level of engraving and internal finish varied by grade, indicating the craftsmanship aligned with price and intended market. Hammer shotguns continued to be offered until 1934, with different steel types—Royal and Damascus—used in accordance with gauge, though not explicitly marked on the firearms as F or FF. Meanwhile, the introduction of box lock shotguns under the Fulton and Hunter Special names served to fulfill the growing demand for affordable firearms without using the L.C. Smith branding. These lower-cost models were essential to staying competitive in a market flooded with cheaper imports.
 
From 1945 to 1950, under the L.C. Smith Gun Company name, the Field Grade shotgun continued as the backbone of the product line, representing the most affordable and widely produced model. First introduced in 1912, the Field Grade became a mainstay due to its durability, reliability, and relatively low cost—attributes that appealed to working-class sportsmen and hunters. With nearly 200,000 units produced, it accounted for 82% of all L.C. Smith sidelock shotgun production through 1950. The model evolved over time, including enhancements such as improved cocking mechanisms and stock reinforcement by 1939, along with options like ivory sights and recoil pads in the Field Special. The widespread adoption and consistent demand for the Field Grade—despite economic fluctuations and changes in ownership—demonstrates its importance not only in the L.C. Smith lineup but also in the broader history of American sporting firearms during the first half of the 20th century.      

Specifications:

Manufacturer: Hunter Arms / L.C. Smith
Model: Field Grade
Serial: 11172R
Caliber: 20 Gauge 
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 25"
Optics/Sights: Brass Bead Front Sight
Stock/Grips: Satin Finished Checkered American Walnut Pistol Grip Stock & Forearm
Action: Top Lever, Break Action, Side-by-Side Shotgun
Markings: Both sides of the lock plate are lightly stamped “L.C. SMITH.” The water table is stamped “11172R / FIELD.” The bottom of the action is stamped “HUNTER / ONE / TRIGGER.” The trigger guard is stamped “11172.” The top of the right barrel is stamped “L.C. SMITH Specialty GRADE.” The top of the left barrel is stamped “HUNTER ARMS CO INC M'F'R'S FULTON, NY, U.S.A.” The barrel flat is stamped “F W E 11172 / FIELD.” The underside of both barrels is stamped with illegible markings. The inside of the forearm is stamped “11172.”

Jul 10th 2025 Bryant Ridge

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