L.C Smith 12GA By Hunter Arms Co.

Welcome back on this 5th Friday of December readers! Today we are looking at a firearm that's a little like Ron himself, weathered, worn, and well-used… but far from retired and even though it's lost its shine, it hasn’t lost its spirit or spark. Take a look at the L.C. Smith Side By Side Shotgun that was distributed by Hunter Arms Co and is one of the first models of internal hammer shotgun ever made.

Introduced in the late 19th century, the L.C. Smith internal hammered shotgun of 1887 stands as an important step in the evolution of American sporting firearms. Manufactured by the L.C. Smith Company of Syracuse, New York, shortly before the brand was acquired by Hunter Arms the 1887 internal hammer model brought together traditional craftsmanship and emerging firearm technology.

Unlike the more common exposed hammer shotguns of the era, this design incorporated concealed internal hammers, giving hunters faster handling while reducing the risk of snagging on clothing or brush in the field. Its sleek profile and cleaner lines also represented a visual departure from earlier black powder fowling pieces, signaling the dawn of a more modern sporting shotgun.

Built on a robust sidelock action, the L.C. Smith internal hammered shotgun was renowned for its crisp trigger pulls and the mechanical precision of its lockwork. The locks were hand-fitted by skilled craftsmen and often admired for their durability and smooth operation—traits that later became hallmarks of the L.C. Smith name.

Many examples from this period feature fine Damascus barrels, which were commonly used before the widespread adoption of fluid steel. Elegant engraving, case-hardened frames, and American walnut stocks with attractive checkering were typical, emphasizing that this was a firearm made for enthusiasts who valued both performance and style.

Not long after these internal hammer models entered production, the esteemed Hunter Arms Company took over the L.C. Smith line and became its primary distributor. Based in Fulton, New York, Hunter Arms elevated the brand to new levels of nationwide recognition by marketing these shotguns as premium American-made sporting arms.

Their reputation for strong quality control and marketing savvy helped ensure that L.C. Smith shotguns remained a popular choice among sportsmen well into the 20th century. Under Hunter Arms’ stewardship, the legacy of the 1887 design was preserved and expanded, paving the way for the later sidelock models that would establish L.C. Smith as a household name among double-gun enthusiasts.

As American shotgunning traditions expanded in the late 1800s driven by sport shooting, waterfowling, and upland game pursuits the L.C. Smith internal hammer shotgun offered sportsmen a reliable and well-balanced companion.

Its break-action design allowed for quick reloading, while the strong lock mechanism provided confidence under the demanding conditions of the hunt. Surviving examples often show heavy field use, a testament to the trust hunters placed in these guns over generations.

Today, the 1887 L.C. Smith internal hammered shotgun holds a respected place in U.S. firearms history. It represents a transitional moment when American manufacturers blended timeless craftsmanship with forward-looking innovation.

Collectors prize these guns not only for their scarcity but for what they symbolize: the rise of a distinctly American sporting-gun tradition and the legacy of one of the most celebrated names in side-by-side shotguns.

Our L.C. Smith is located near our “Wild West” display and is nestled among some Winchester 1886 rifles, be sure to keep an eye out for it on your next tour, so we will say goodbye for now on the L.C. Smith, Honouring a classic that’s earned every mark it wears.