serial #290153-T, 12 ga., 32'' ventilated rib barrel choked full with a bright about excellent bore which shows some very light remnants of extremely light pitting just ahead of the forcing cone, it is unobtrusive and appears to have been very neatly, professionally honed. The barrel retains about 97% original blue, the loss is due to even fading, some muzzle wear, and scattered light handling marks from honest use. The Grade 4 engraved frame retains perhaps 70% original color case-hardening, quite vivid on the top of the frame and the left flat, with the right side toning to plum, the carry point at the belly of the frame a warm plum patina. The typical open flowing Ithaca foliate engraving is crisp with the right flat featuring the American Eagle, left with the typical trap shooter in bowler hat. The straight grip American walnut buttstock rates very fine with the expected light handling marks that come from the years, a very nice fleur-de-lis checkering pattern which remains crisp and lovely grain figure in the area of the butt. The shield-shaped monogram plate along the toeline remains un-engraved and the length of pull to the solid period pad is 14 1/2'' with drops of 1 1/2'' and 2 1/2''. The semi-beavertail target style forearm rates about very good showing more wear, four small cracks at the iron, its fit a bit loose. The gun seems to lock up tightly with the lever at about dead center, there is the very slightest amount of lateral play able to be felt but the barrel remains on-face. The rib features dual ivory target beads and the gun seems to function well mechanically with a robust ejector. A handsome Grade 4 just awaiting its turn back at the traps. (3B9771-12) {C&R} (1500/2000)
firearm