Lefever Arms Co. H Grade 12 GA 28" F/M Double Barrel Side by Side Shotgun, MFD 1906Our Assessment: Daniel Lefever created the first commercially successful hammerless double barreled shotgun in the United States spawning a new array of models from the burgeoning manufacturing industry in New York which included Ithaca, L.C. Smith, and his own Lefever Arms Company. This an example of the H Grade Hammerless Sideplate model which is a boxlock but also has sideplates giving it an appealing look to those who prefer sidelocks. Though made in 1906, this example still retains much of its original finish and strong mechanics. Whether you're looking to add to an American shotgun collection or just want a nice double-barrel with some old American quality design and craftsmanship, this a great shotgun to pick up.
Make: Lefever Arms Co.
Model: H Grade
Serial Number: 57480
Year of Manufacture: 1906
Caliber: 12 GA
Action Type: Top-Break Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun
Barrel Length: 28"
Choke: Left: Full, Right: Modified
Sights / Optics: There is a white bead at the front of the rib and a smaller white mid-bead. The rib is textured for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with splinter forend, capped pistol grip, straight comb and serrated black hard rubber buttplate. The stocks have some scattered marks through the finish. There are cracks at the rear of the sideplates. The checkering is well defined. The LOP measures 14" and 13 1/8" from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate. Drop at comb is approximately 1 3/4", drop at heel 3 1/8". The stocks rate in about Very Good-Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Browned Damascus & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. The right bore has a light dent about 2" from the muzzle, the left bore has deep scratches about 1" from the muzzle. There is no erosion in the bores. In this writer's opinion, the bores rate about 7 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 85% of its metal finish. There is finish loss on the bottom of the frame, but the case color is otherwise strong. The finish is thinning at most edges. There are a few areas of surface frost and minor marks through the finish. The barrels have areas of thinning finish with a few scattered areas of finish loss. There are some marks in the metal. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock up with no play to the receiver. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
CA LEGALITY: C&R: YES, CA PPT: NO.
SHOTGUNS