Make: L.C. Smith

Model: Ideal Grade Featherweight

Serial Number: 29268 (matching numbered parts)

Year of Manufacture: 1948 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2.75" chambers

Action Type: Top break, side by side, non-selective double triggers, and split ejectors

Choke: Left: Full, Right: Improved Modified, Both Fixed

Barrel Length: 30"

Sights/Optics: There is a brass bead atop the raised matted rib.

Weight: 7 lb., 9.1 oz.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The sanded and refinished furniture is checkered walnut with a semi pistol grip, straight comb, and a synthetic Pachmayr buttpad. The forend has an inlaid triangular ebony insert at the nose. The furniture shows minor scuffs, scratches, and drag lines. The checkering is well defined. The semi pistol grip cap shows some residue from the furniture being refinished. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.75" and 12.75" from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttpad. The drop at comb is about 1.75" and the drop at the heel is about 2.75". The buttpad has little wear and remains supple. Overall, the furniture rates in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued & case colored

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bores are bright with no visible streaking. There is no erosion in the bores. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are very light scratches scattered infrequently throughout. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun is in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock to the receiver with no play. The safety engages automatically when the barrel set is opened. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This L.C. Smith Ideal Grade Featherweight was manufactured in 1948 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. L.C. Smith was one of America's premier sidelock double-barrel shotguns. The Ideal Grade offered an excellent balance of quality, durability, and tasteful embellishment, while the Featherweight frame reduced overall weight without sacrificing strength. Renowned for their refined sidelock action and graceful handling, L.C. Smith shotguns remain among the most collectible and respected American doubles.

Chambered for 12 Gauge with 30 inch barrels, this shotgun features a traditional field choke combination with the left barrel choked Full and the right barrel choked Improved Modified, making it well suited for waterfowl, turkey, and longer-range upland shooting. In this writer's opinion, the bores rate a perfect 10 out of 10, indicating exceptional internal condition. The action functions correctly.

The sanded and refinished furniture rates in Fine condition with an attractive appearance and only light handling wear. This shotgun retains approximately 97% of its refinished metal finish, presenting exceptionally well while reflecting its restoration. Overall, this shotgun rates in Fine condition and represents a handsome restored example of the L.C. Smith Ideal Grade Featherweight, combining the elegance of a classic American sidelock with outstanding mechanical condition. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!