Lester Smith (1920-1970) apprenticed under Hacker Martin and is said to be Martin's favorite apprentice as laid out in "Foxfire 5" which also notes, "Lester Smith could inlay metal to wood as perfect as any man alive. He was a master engraver, and his work in his late years can be found in some of the best collections of the country." Smith was one of the "Johnson City School" of gunmakers in the 20th century and produced gorgeous rifles with intricate pierced furniture, nice engraving, and fine carving as can clearly be seen on this heavy match rifle. It has a large modern target rifle globe front sight, adjustable Redfield peep sight, "Lester Smith" signed on top of the G.R. Douglas barrel in a silver panel accented by flourishes of scroll engraving, scroll engraved lock, adjustable double set triggers, extensive silver accent plates and patch box with pierced designs as well as zig-zag and scroll engraving (including a very intricate pierced wear plate on the bottom of the forend and a finely engraved federal eagle cheek piece inlay), and raised relief scroll carving along the length of the nicely figured stock.

Very fine as custom made with 85% plus of the brown finish remaining on the barrel, light aged patina on the silver and furniture, and minor handling and storage type marks. The stock is also very fine and has fine figure, attractive finish, crisp relief carving, and minimal wear. Mechanically fine.