How would you rate a L.C. Smith, 12 bore, as a platform for a NE double rifle. What cartridge would fit/work best on this frame size? This is a '50s vintage field grade.

Hog Killer

You would need to send the action out to be re-hardened, and install bushings around the firing pins. And the action is not as stout as one designed for nitro express calibers. But many double rifles have been built on lesser actions.

The 12 ga. action will be suitable for .577 Nitro Express. A 20 ga. action would be suitable for 470 nitro express, .500 NE, .450 NE.

HK,
if i ever get my book back from a buddy (i am holding his 460 weatherby mag headspace gages hsotage) I'll loan you ellis brown's book.. and we can yak on that tomorrow!
jeffe

quote:

Originally posted by Hog Killer:
How would you rate a L.C. Smith, 12 bore, as a platform for a NE double rifle. Hog Killer

It's probably the weakest of all american sxs actions. if you were forced to chose an american action, then probably a Mdl 21 would be your best bet. However, that's the ugliest of all american actions.

If you seriously have the time, money, and wherewithall to build such a gun...

I'd say the common action you should seek would be a Webley Screw Grip off a shotgun with barrels that need sleeving.

There were a lot of DRs built on that action, and I can't imagine a gunsmigth baulking at the idea.

With an amerian made action, you're going to get push-back from the g-smith..

wonder how a win model 24 would work?
sure would be pretty
jeffe

It is my understanding that the Browning BSS was first used by Searcy before he built his own actions....I highly recommend reading Ellis book.

500 Grains seems to be a knowlegable poster but I'd like to know his knowlege base on recommending an LC Smith for such duty....nothing personal...just asking what experience or specific knowlege is used for support his post ont his subject.

Rick Stickley used a Browning BSS in 20 gauge for most of his conversions. If you use a 12 gauge you will end up trimming the action down to a 20 gauge size so it will fit the barrels.

Please don't, if you alter an L C Smith double (even a field grade) in that way you will cause me to cry uncontrolably and have siezures.

I would prefer a different bolting system on a double rifle than the LCS.

Would just about any well made action work for that matter? Maybe a CZ Ringneck or even a Stoger Uplander? IMO it would be much better to butcher one of these to build on than to hack up a prize. Some of us couldn't afford an LC Smith much less one that will suck up so much more money and be altered so dramatically. I too would cry over a vintage Smith (or any other maker)that was getting altered. I don't think I could do it.

I've thought about this ever since I saw Ellis' book. (I haven't read it yet but have a copy on order) I think this is something I could do in pieces instead of shelling out thousands at one time.

High pressure double rifles require a double under lug locking system, preferably using chopper lumps. They also need a gusset at the standing breech and water table junction. They also need a top locking system to boot, preferably a greener crossbolt design.

L C Smith has only a top latch, none of the other requirements. Plus the receivers are made from mild steel.

If you are contemplating building a double rifle I recomend you get a copy of "Building Double Rifles" by W. Ellis Brown. They are available through Brownells.

I believe the model 103 Husqvarna shotgun with hammers used a Greener action. Would this work? Most you find are either 12ga or 16ga.

I have a 30-30 double rifle built on a Browning 20 Ga. It has been used to hunt with and is still tight and the action sound.