Marlin L.C. Smith Field Grade 12 Gauge Side-by-Side, 28 in Barrels, Ventilated Rib, Color Case-Hardened Receiver (1970-1971)
Marlin’s North Haven reintroduction of the L.C. Smith is a short-run, U.S.-made side-by-side produced from 1968 to 1971, with approximately 2,038 Field Grade units built. This 12-gauge Field Grade example from the 1970-1971 era features a color case-hardened receiver, 28 in blued barrels with a ventilated, matted rib, and crisp factory markings. It stands out for its low production, correct markings, and excellent bores.
Marlin’s reintroduction run used the FWM serial prefix and carried period-correct markings, including a water table stamped "L. C. SMITH FIELD GRADE" and a rib marked "L.C. Smith - 12 Ga." This context helps date and identify examples from the North Haven production period.
The barrels measure 28 inches and are topped with a ventilated, matted rib and a brass front bead for a clean sight picture. The break-action configuration and top-tang safety reflect the classic L.C. Smith layout in a practical Field Grade setup.
The stock and forend retain the Field Grade aesthetic: a splinter forend paired with a pistol-grip buttstock, both hand-checkered. The color case-hardened receiver complements the blued barrels, and the length of pull measures 14.0 inches.
Overall presentation is strong for a North Haven Field Grade, with correct features, excellent bores, and the right markings that collectors and enthusiasts look for from this Marlin-era L.C. Smith.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: The action has been bedded to the stock with a compound, which is gumming up the action and preventing the safety from actuating properly, leaving the firearm in an inoperable condition. The cosmetic appearance is very good with only minor handling wear. Gunsmith special sold as is.
What’s Included
- Marlin L.C. Smith Field Grade 12 Gauge side-by-side shotgun
Produced in the 1970-1971 timeframe at Marlin’s North Haven facility, this Field Grade aligns with the short-lived reintroduction of the L.C. Smith line. The run’s limited scale adds context and appeal for those tracking postwar L.C. Smith production.
Key configuration details include 28 in blued barrels with a ventilated, matted rib and a brass front bead, paired with a color case-hardened receiver. The classic side-by-side break-action holds two rounds and uses a top-tang safety.
Furniture is true to Field Grade form, with a splinter forend and a pistol-grip stock finished with hand checkering. Length of pull is 14.0 inches, offering a familiar fit for many shooters.
Markings are as expected for this era: the water table is stamped "L. C. SMITH FIELD GRADE," and the rib reads "L.C. Smith - 12 Ga." These identifiers, along with the Marlin-era FWM serial prefix convention, help anchor the gun within the 1968-1971 reintroduction period.