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Joined: 09 Apr 2009 Posts: 36

I came across an Lc Smith Field Grade and picked it up. Dates to 1942 and has 2 3/4” chambers.
Looking at what factory loads to put through it. I’ve seen a few recommendations to stay with 1 oz loads at less than 1200 fps.
What is everyone’s thought on that? I typically shoot Fiocchi Golden Pheasant 6’s in my Browning.

Member Joined: 30 Nov 2011 Posts: 1698 Location: Minnesota

Definite no to the Fiocchis, theyre hot.

Joined: 27 Sep 2015 Posts: 177 Location: Alabama

I've shot RST 1oz #5 in my '40 Smith field grade at Phez. Not sure how available they are now though. Think they make the same shell with #6.

Joined: 06 Jan 2017 Posts: 88

By 1942, all the American gun companies were chambering their 16s at 2 3/4". I think Elsie was about the last to change. I'll certainly defer to the opinion of those with experience with Elsies that left the factory with 2 3/4" chambers. American shotshell companies were making the same high brass 3 1/4 dram equivalent, 1 1/8 shot loads then that they're still making. In terms of velocity, those loads are just a little slower than the Fiocchi Golden Pheasants. Seems to me they should work OK.

Joined: 09 Aug 2007 Posts: 444 Location: WI

If you're concerned about shooting any modern 16 gauge ammo, best thing would be to have it checked by a good gunsmith. Personally, I would probably not hesitate to shoot any modern factory ammo in a 1940's vintage gun with factory 2-3/4" chambers and good, solid, clean & unmarked/dinged/pitted barrels.

Of greater concern to me would be inspecting the stock by removing it and checking for cracks and weak oil-soaked wood in the wrist and behind the action. The barrels might be fine, but if the stock has internal damage and the gun ends up punching you in the face you won't be very happy.

I’ll echo njgsp, check that stock out before shooting. Me personally I would not worry about modern loads assuming the gun checks out, but I would avoid repeated target shooting with normal hunting loads. If you feel the need to practice with it, either reload some 3/4 or 7/8 oz loads, or buy some low speed 1oz loads.

The damage to a stock, especially an Elsie or any sidelock, is cumulative. Again, have that gun checked out by a competent gunsmith.

Enjoy, I’ve been eyeing some just like yours!

Joined: 03 Feb 2008 Posts: 830 Location: Adirondak Mtns

I use 1oz rem game loads, herters, and federal with no problem.

Joe

Joined: 17 Oct 2019 Posts: 456 Location: New Jersey

No matter what loads you shoot, make sure the stock is on tight. If it’s loose it’ can crack behind the lock plates. The wood shrinks over time. This is really the only weakness the LC’s suffer from.

Joined: 16 Jul 2015 Posts: 2126 Location: Hudson,Wy

The metal work is fairly robust and I shot both 1oz. and 1 1/8 oz. loads in my Smith 16's, but I reload for the 1,185 fps to 1,250 fps range. The bigger concern is the weak stock head that does not handle prolonged exposure to high recoil.