LeFever Nitro Special 16 Gauge Side-by-Side, Ithaca-Built Boxlock, 28 in Barrels, 2 3/4 in Chambers, Mod/Cyl Chokes
This LeFever Nitro Special is a 16 gauge, Ithaca-built boxlock from the 1920s with classic features and clean bores. Notable details include 28-inch steel barrels with a matted top rib, fixed Modified and Cylinder chokes, 2 3/4 inch chambers, and a case-hardened receiver with factory game-scene roll engraving. It retains its extractor-only setup and double triggers, combining period-correct configuration with practical usability.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: There are visible marks from prior handling and use. The bores present clean surfaces on inspection. Please refer to the photos for additional views.
What’s Included
- LeFever Nitro Special 16 Gauge side-by-side shotgun
Built by Ithaca as the Lefever Nitro Special boxlock, this shotgun aligns to circa 1923 production based on its serial range, placing it firmly in the 1920s era of American manufacture. The barrels retain the correct rollmarks: "LEFEVER NITRO SPECIAL" and "LEFEVER ARMS CO ITHACA, N.Y."
The 28-inch steel barrels feature a matted top rib and 2 3/4 inch chambers. Chokes are fixed Modified and Cylinder, a versatile pairing that suits a range of field and clays applications. The bores are clean, consistent with the noted condition.
The action is a break-action with double triggers and extractor-only (non-ejector) operation. Capacity is two rounds. This straightforward, period-correct configuration reflects the model’s intended reliability and simplicity.
The case-hardened steel receiver carries factory-applied, simple game-scene roll engraving. Furniture includes a walnut stock with pistol grip, checkered wrist, and a black buttplate. The matching walnut splinter forend uses an external sliding latch. Length of pull measures 13.5 inches.
Overall, this Nitro Special brings together classic Ithaca-era construction, clean bores, and desirable features like the matted rib, Mod/Cyl chokes, and 2 3/4 inch chambers—supported by correct markings and factory engraving.