Ithaca Lewis Model 12 Gauge Side-by-Side, 32-inch Damascus Barrels, 1905, Light Scroll-Engraved Floorplate, Walnut Stock
This 1905 Ithaca Lewis Model is a U.S.-made, hammerless boxlock side-by-side built during the short Lewis era (1901–1906). It features 32-inch Damascus barrels with a concave matted rib and rib extension, light scroll engraving on the bottom/trigger plate (floorplate) with plain receiver sides, and classic walnut furniture with an Ithaca-logo hard rubber buttplate. With its transitional design bridging the Crass and later Minier/Flues models, this SxS offers strong historical interest and would make a good restoration project.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal shows widespread rust and finish loss with scratching and blemishes. The wood furniture is worn. The top lever sits left of center and may be worn; a qualified gunsmith evaluation is recommended. Barrel fit is good. The extractor is functioning properly.
The firing pins are in good condition. The stock has a neutral grip and neutral cast.
What’s Included
- Ithaca Lewis Model 12 Gauge side-by-side shotgun
Built in 1905, this Lewis Model represents Ithaca's transitional engineering between the earlier Crass and the subsequent Minier/Flues designs. It is a hammerless boxlock with internal hammers and double triggers, reflecting the robust, straightforward mechanisms valued by period shooters and modern collectors alike.
The 32-inch Damascus barrels are paired with a concave matted rib and a rib extension, combining classic materials with practical sighting and lock-up features from the era. The Damascus finish presents the distinctive patterned appearance associated with turn-of-the-century doubles.
Stocked in walnut, the shotgun has a capped pistol grip with a hard-rubber grip cap, checkering, and an Ithaca-logo hard rubber buttplate. The splinter forend continues the traditional SxS profile. The stock is set with a neutral cast and neutral grip, and the length of pull measures 13.5 inches.
Light scroll engraving appears on the bottom/trigger plate (floorplate); the receiver sides are plain. Mechanical notes include good barrel fit, a good extractor, and good firing pins. The top lever sits left of center and may be worn; a gunsmith evaluation is recommended. Capacity is 2 rounds, and the action is break-action with double triggers.
As a collectible Lewis-era Ithaca with desirable 32-inch Damascus tubes, this example presents authentic features and configuration from its period. Given its fair condition, it would make a good restoration project for those looking to return a classic SxS to form.