Marlin LC Smith SxS - 28ga

[Ahsan Ahmed]

Has anyone had an opportunity to inspect/use a 28ga? Is that built on a 20ga frame?

Although I'm not a fan of shotguns with sideplates and beavertail fore end.... perhaps the 28ga may be worth looking into?

Surprisingly, it priced lower (Wholesale Sports) than a 12 or 20ga - could anyone provide a rationale?

Thanks,

 

[Claybuster]

I've never seen one but certainly someone with your discerning tastes would never seriously consider a sxs with sideplates.

IIRC the Marlin 28 gauge is made in Spain by Zabala who also make (made?) the Charles Daly boxlock shotguns. So if you know Zabala then you know this gun too.

But seriously, sideplates?

 

[stocker]

I'm refinishing the wood on a 1907 built 20 guage Elsie in a grade 2E. It is a true sidelock. Are these repros actually faked with side plates?

 

[Sharptail]

Ahsan, something is really odd with these guns. Not only is the 28 gauge less expensive than the 12, it is a quarter pound heavier than the 12, even though the small gauge gun's barrels are 2 inches shorter. Has Marlin subcontracted another manufacturer to make these guns? Are they still made in Italy?

Edited to add, I guess I should read all the replies before I post. Good info, CB.

Stocker, the present L.C. Smith brand has nothing to do with the old shotguns, they are not reproductions. Marlin is just capitalizing on the name (which they own the rights to).

Sharptail

 

[Ahsan Ahmed]

Zabala (thought Marlin had those built in Italy) .....weighs more than a 12ga Should've done a bit of research before posting

Sideplates , well, I have also been thinking about a Caesar Guerini in 28ga.....

 

[Claybuster]

Zabala (thought Marlin had those built in Italy) .....weighs more than a 12ga Should've done a bit of research before posting

Sideplates , well, I have also been thinking about a Caesar Guerini in 28ga.....

Apparently, Marlin does source some of their sxs in Italy. From what I've read on Shotgun World their 20 gauge sxs is (was?) made by Fausti.

Guerini does produce 28 gauge o/u without sideplates. I am a firm opponent of sideplates on a boxlock. They increase the cost, weaken the stock and can be a pain when you want to remove the stock if they have a through bolt.