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Make: Lefever Arms Company
Model: Side-Lock Hammerless F Grade
Serial Number: 32758 F
Year of Manufacture: 1900
Gauge: 12 gauge 2 3/4” Black Powder Shells
Action Type: Break-Open Side-Lock Side by Side Shotgun with Extractor and Cocking Indicators.
Markings: The sides of the frame are marked, “LEFEVER ARMS CO.” on either side of the locks. The bottom of the frame has patent dates. The water table is marked, “32758 F” The underside of the frame is marked with patent dates. The forend is marked, “32758” The bottom tang is marked, “32758” The top tang is marked, “S” There is light engraving throughout.
Barrel Length: 30”
Choke: Left: IMr, Right: IM, Both Fixed
Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead at the front of the rib. The rib is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece checkered walnut set with a splinter forend, capped semi-pistol grip, straight fluted comb, and a checkered vulcanized rubber Lefever buttplate. The stock has been replaced. There are moderate handling marks throughout. There are no cracks. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 14 1/4″ from the front trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock set is in Very Good condition. The stock has a neutral cast. The drop at comb is, 1 5/8” and the drop at heel is, 2 1/2”
Type of Finish: Oil dipped Croll ribbon pattern damascus, Case Color.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is some minor fouling scattered about both barrels along with scratch lines. There is no notable erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 65% of its metal finish. The case color is completely worn with faint spots of color. The damascus is clear with light spots of wear and scratching. The action has moderate wear. The screw heads are lightly tooled. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly including extractors. The barrels lock up to the frame with no play, the firing pins are in good shape. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This Lefever Arms Co. Model 'F' Grade side-by-side shotgun is a fine example of American gunmaking from the golden age of handcrafted sporting arms. Manufactured in 1900, this shotgun reflects the transitional period when Damascus barrels and case-hardened sidelock actions were paired with increasingly refined aesthetics and mechanical innovations. The 'F' Grade was an entry-level offering in Lefever’s graded line but still featured fine fit and finish, light engraving, and robust sidelock construction—an uncommon feature in American shotguns that set Lefever apart from many of its contemporaries. The gun features dual cocking indicators, double triggers, and extractors, all paired with an elegant 30" damascus barrel set. This shotgun retains approximately 65% of its original metal finish, with richly patterned Croll ribbon Damascus barrels that remain clear and attractive despite honest field wear. The case coloring on the receiver has largely faded, but traces remain in protected areas. Mechanically, the shotgun is solid—lockup is tight, the action functions correctly, and the firing pins are intact. The bores are bright and clean with only light fouling and no notable erosion, rating 9/10 by black powder standards. The walnut stock set is a later replacement, well-executed with crisp checkering, a semi-pistol grip, and proper dimensions. The stock has a neutral cast and shows no cracks or major flaws, making it both functional and visually fitting for a vintage gun.
Whether you are a collector of American double guns, a vintage sporting enthusiast, or simply appreciate the artistry of 19th-century firearms, this 1900 Lefever F Grade offers a tasteful combination of elegance, shootability, and historical value. Its clear damascus, solid bores, and updated stock make it a viable candidate for black powder or low-pressure loads with proper inspection, or as a standout piece in any early American shotgun collection.