Sow’s Ear to Silk Purse
Since there are many fine old firearms in various levels of decay, it is sometimes possible to make the above transition. The following photos show some of the stages in the conversion of a 1928 L. C. Smith 12 gauge to an acceptable (modern) custom firearm. The inspiration for the metal sculpting was obviously from that of Pete Mazur on the #10 ACGG Firearm that I was fortunate enough to stock.
The starting point for this project was a gun show purchased L. C. Smith featherweight in 12 gauge with 28" barrels choked approximately cylinder and modified. The gun was essentially sound but had suffered some neglect. Considerable light rust had accumulated along with some pitting (some of which could not be removed but was not visible in the final assembly). The photos will show the basic steps in putting the old girl back in order.
Overall and close-up views of gun as originally acquired. Not unrepresentative of many gun show offerings.
View of general reshaping of top tang and upper receiver area. Considerable metal removed from latter area along with establishment of definite contours.
Similar view of left side of receiver and side plate. Front of forend iron curved, and sides and bottom of receiver contoured as per Pete Mazur's job on ACGG #10. Top of receiver lowered somewhat behind fences.
Semi-finished metal shown with stock blank to be used for replacement. Internal parts visible, top lever considerably reshaped.
As above with sideplate in place. By this point most screws have been replaced with new ones and slots have been aligned with the bores.
With the stock and forend fitted, finished and checkered, only metalfinishing remains.
Completely finished L.C. Smith. Engraved by Gil Rudolph. Case coloring by Case Color Company.
Close-up of right sideplate on finished shotgun. (Photo by Tom Alexander)
Maker Biography |
Examples of Work
For Sale |
Learn more about Custom Firearms |
Contact Info