Lester Smith (1920-1970) was one of the best gunmakers of the 20th century "Johnson City School" in Tennessee and is listed in Foxfire 5 as Hacker Martin's favorite apprentice. His firearms exhibit intricate engraving, carving, and accents. This pistol is a nice example of his work and is signed "Lester Smith" in cursive along the top of the barrel. The rifled barrel also has dovetailed blade and notch sights and engraving. The unmarked lock also as scroll engraving as does the various German silver inlays and the furniture. The stock is nicely figured maple.