The Legacy of L.C. Smith Shotguns

And The L.C. Smith Crown Grade Featherweight 16 Gauge

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Part 1: The Origins and Evolution of L.C. Smith Gun Making

The L.C. Smith shotgun is a revered name in the world of American firearms, synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and rich history. This iconic double gun has carved its niche in the annals of American gunmaking through a blend of innovation, resilience, and unwavering commitment to quality. The journey of L.C. Smith from its inception in the late 19th century to its stature today is a story worth telling.

The roots of L.C. Smith gunmaking trace back to 1879, with the collaboration of W.H. Baker and the Smith brothers, Leroy and Lyman Cornelius. The partnership, operating under the Baker name, began producing side-by-side shotguns featuring external hammers and even ventured into three-barrel guns, known as drillings. These early models were innovative for their time, combining shotgun barrels with rifle barrels to cater to diverse hunting needs.

In 1880, Baker and Leroy Smith departed to establish the Ithaca Gun Company, leaving Lyman Cornelius Smith to steer the Baker operations. The company, continuing under the Baker name until 1889, then came under the ownership of John Hunter of Fulton, New York. This marked the beginning of the production of the L.C. Smith guns that enthusiasts recognize today.

John Hunter’s acquisition of the company in 1888 was pivotal. Renaming it Hunter Arms Company, he envisioned a family-run business where his six sons could work together. Under Hunter’s leadership, the company flourished, and production expanded significantly. By 1892, L.C. Smith guns boasted automatic ejectors, a revolutionary feature at the time. The company’s portfolio diversified, offering a range of grades, gauges, stock configurations, ejectors, and trigger options.