Stumbled across an L.C. Smith 12 gauge SxS at a local gunshop the other day. Memorized the serial number (low 210,000's) and hit the L.C. Smith collector's sites. Based on info I've gleaned, it was made in 1903. It's in good to very good condition considering its age. Stock and fore end are complete, no splits, light dings. Finish is pretty much gone off them, though. Metal is slightly discolored...age spots, I guess. Barrels are Damascus. Locks up tight. Ejectors work, dual triggers work fine.
First thought was, "How cool would it be to clean this thing up and bust clays with an ol' timer?". Then I remembered all the warnings about Damascus-type barrels with modern loads. So, it can't be a shooter. Problem is, I still like the stupid thing. Maybe it's the age, or the lines of it. Gunshop is asking $300 out the door. Should I go for it? Whaddya say?