I have a chance to pick up an LC smith field grade 16 ga. in VERY good condition. is $1100 a reasonable price for something like this? This is a market I am total unfamiliar with.

There is a huge gap between "good" shape and factory new shape. I just bought a "good" 20 ga, shot little, no stock markings, but reblued barrels for $400.

The collector stuff is out of sight, but shooters are a dime a dozen, seems like. 16 ga. may be more collectable, I don't know. Take a gander at Auction Arms, Gun Broker, etc, and see where the current asking prices are, and of course the blue book can give you an idea. In the end, though, the condition is everything. JMO, Dutch.

That's a little high, but not highway robbery. I'd be looking for $900 or so in a field grade unless it is mint, I mean mint.

OTOH, if you like it, it's probably worth it. You won't find one in very good condition and in 16ga every day.

Tom,

The "Elsie" will be worth a bit more if it is a field grade featherweight. IMHO, the LC Smith is among the finest shotguns EVER made anywhere. And it's the only American made sidelock. Mine just got a new English walnut stock, new case colors and a rust blue job on the barrels. Don't think I'd ever care to part with it. Just don't get one that has Marlin on it anywhere!

Good Hunting,

Thank you for the responses. I wound up taking a differnet direction entirely. I found a Franchi Veloce 20Ga. at Gander Mountain and it felt so light and lively in my hands I HAD to take it home with me. I think it will make a nice walking around all day pheasant gun!.