Here are some excerpts from the SCSC (Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson):
"...it has been reported that the earlier Model 916 pattern shotguns were made in the U.S. based on the Nobel Shotgun Company's Eastfield model. They were made by S&W in a separate facility after Nobel declared bankruptcy c. 1969."
Model 916 Slide Action Shotgun with Fixed Barrel was produced in 18", 20", 26", 28", and 30" barrels. Introduced 1972. My inference from the text of the SCSW was this was produced 1972-1978 but it is not clear if this was produced after 1978.
The fixed barrel version had a plain pistol grip, was either plain or ventilated barrel, offered in various chokes in 12, 20, and 16 gauge, and was chambered for 2-3/4" and 3" magnum shells.
The SCSW, third edition, copyright 2006, lists $185 value in excellent condition.
