L.C. Smith Shotgun Company
The L.C. Smith Shotgun Company, later owned by Hunter Arms Company and Marlin Firearms, is one of the most respected names in American shotgun manufacturing. Known for its high-quality side-by-side shotguns, the brand is synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and reliability. L.C. Smith shotguns were favored by hunters, sport shooters, and collectors and remain highly sought after today.
This article explores the history of L.C. Smith shotguns, from its founding to its place in the competitive firearms market. It also examines the key innovations, major shotgun models, and the lasting impact of the brand on American firearm manufacturing.
Origins of L.C. Smith Shotguns: Founding and Early History
The history of L.C. Smith shotguns dates back to the late 19th century, when Lyman Cornelius Smith, a businessman from Syracuse, New York, became involved in firearm production.
The Founding of L.C. Smith Gun Company
- Lyman C. Smith (b. 1850) initially focused on typewriters, laying the foundation for what would later become Smith-Corona. However, he also saw potential in the emerging American firearms industry.
- In the 1880s, Lyman and his brother Leroy invested in shotgun manufacturing, establishing what would become the L.C. Smith Gun Company.
- The company specialized in double-barrel, side-by-side shotguns, which quickly gained a reputation for superior craftsmanship and mechanical reliability.
Hunter Arms Company Takes Over (1889)
- In 1888, Lyman C. Smith sold his firearms business to focus on typewriters.
- In 1889, the Hunter Arms Company of Fulton, New York, purchased the L.C. Smith shotgun line and continued its production.
- Hunter Arms retained the L.C. Smith name, ensuring its reputation continued.
For over five decades, Hunter Arms produced some of the finest shotguns in America, making the name legendary among gun enthusiasts.
L.C. Smith Shotguns: Models and Reputation
The brand became synonymous with high-quality side-by-side shotguns. Known for their elegant sidelock design, smooth trigger pull, and durable steel barrels, these shotguns were favored by both casual hunters and serious sportsmen.
Notable L.C. Smith Shotgun Models
L.C. Smith offered various grades of shotguns, each catering to different levels of shooters:
- Field Grade (Most Common)
- Introduced in 1912 as an affordable, durable option.
- Featured plain walnut stocks and basic engraving.
- Ideal Grade
- A step up from Field Grade, with better wood and checkering.
- Popular among sporting and upland hunters.
- Specialty Grade
- More refined engraving and higher-grade walnut stocks.
- Favored by competitive shooters and wealthy sportsmen.
- Crown Grade & Monogram Grade
- High-end custom-built shotguns with hand-engraved receivers.
- Often had gold inlays and finely checkered grips.
- Eagle Grade & Premier Grade
- The rarest and most expensive models.
- Custom-built with exquisite engraving and premium materials.
These shotguns were widely used in upland hunting, skeet shooting, and sport shooting competitions. Today, L.C. Smith shotguns remain prized collector’s items.
Key Innovations in L.C. Smith Shotguns
L.C. Smith shotguns were renowned for their craftsmanship and introduced key innovations that set them apart from competitors.
Sidelock Action (vs. Boxlock)
- Unlike many American shotgun makers (such as Parker Brothers and Fox), which used boxlock designs, their shotguns featured a sidelock mechanism.
- Sidelock shotguns have their firing mechanisms mounted on the side plates, which:
- Provide a smoother trigger pull.
- Make repairs and adjustments easier.
- Allow for more intricate engraving.
This British-style sidelock design became a hallmark of L.C. Smith shotguns, making them distinct from other American brands.
Transition to Fluid Steel Barrels
- Early L.C. Smith shotguns used Damascus barrels, common in the 19th century.
- By the early 20th century, the company adopted fluid steel barrels, which:
- Enhanced durability and strength.
- Improved safety by withstanding higher-pressure loads.
- Became the industry standard.
This transition helped extend the lifespan of L.C. Smith shotguns and ensure their continued reliability.
The Competitive Landscape: Rivals and Market Challenges
Throughout its history, L.C. Smith faced strong competition from other top-tier American shotgun manufacturers.
Main Competitors:
- Parker Brothers (Founded 1868) – Produced high-quality double-barrel shotguns.
- Fox Sterlingworth (Founded 1905) – Targeted the same high-end market.
- Ithaca Gun Company (Founded 1883) – Competed with lower-cost alternatives.
- Winchester Model 21 (1930s) – A boxlock alternative to sidelock shotguns.
- Browning Superposed (1931) – Introduced over/under shotguns, shifting the market.
Despite increasing competition, the company's shotguns retained a loyal following among serious hunters and collectors.
The Decline and Legacy of L.C. Smith Shotguns
Marlin Firearms Acquires L.C. Smith (1945)
- In 1945, the Hunter Arms Company was acquired by Marlin Firearms.
- Marlin continued producing L.C. Smith shotguns until 1950.
- Production briefly resumed between 1968-1971, but the brand faded.
Legacy and Collectibility
- Today, L.C. Smith shotguns are prized collector’s items.
- Their classic sidelock design and craftsmanship make them highly desirable.
- Many original examples fetch thousands of dollars in the collector’s market.
Final Thoughts: The Lasting Influence of L.C. Smith Shotguns
The L.C. Smith brand remains one of the most respected names in American shotgun history. Known for their sidelock design, premium craftsmanship, and durability, these shotguns continue to hold a special place among collectors, sportsmen, and firearms historians.
Though no longer in production, the L.C. Smith name lives on through the enthusiasts and collectors who cherish these beautifully crafted shotguns. Whether for sport, hunting, or collection, an L.C. Smith shotgun is a true testament to American firearm heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who made L.C. Smith shotguns?
L.C. Smith shotguns were originally made by L.C. Smith Gun Company but were later produced by Hunter Arms Company (1889-1945) and Marlin Firearms (1945-1950, briefly revived in the 1960s).
2. Are L.C. Smith shotguns valuable?
Yes. Depending on the model and condition, some are worth thousands of dollars.
3. What made L.C. Smith shotguns special?
Their sidelock action, high-quality steel barrels, and elegant craftsmanship set them apart from other American shotgun brands.
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