*** 1878 12 Bore Lifter ***
 

This is a new to me 0 Grade lifter . No. 2 frame with 30” Damascus marked barrels that ring true .Nice shiny bores with just a couple small pits . On face and very solid overall. Wood fits tight and is free of cracks . Checkering is excellent and well defined. Serial #13076.
Picked her up at a local shop it had just come in with a bevy of other guns from a WW 1 veterans estate . It was covered with dust and some mold. It honestly looked bad but the bore looked clean . I took a chance and picked it up for $350 out the door. I spent a couple hours cleaning it up carefully as to not harm any of the underlying finish that had patina. I think it cleaned very nicely and I am thrilled with the purchase. This is my first lifter and I do plan on shooting it .

I have a couple other later Hammerless Parker’s so this is not my first Parker. I am however not familiar with the Lifter models. I’m am curious as to the value in the current market ?

Also since I plan on shooting it any advice on do and donuts or care for the lifter model would be greatly appreciated.

Very nice Lifter!!
Is the forend iron numbered the same as the gun?
I ask because the bowtie checkering pattern is that of a Grade-2.





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Dean, the forearm is numbered to the gun . Maybe I’m off on the grading ? I apologize as I am not knowledgeable in grading.

Some more pics. Barrel is serial numbered also 13076.

Forearm

Your gun is a higher grade than a zero (0). It is probably a 2, maybe a 1.

Thanks Bill, is there a definitive way to determine the grade ?

I think Bill is correct that it is not a Grade 0. The wrist and fore end would suggest grade two, but I'd expect a bit more engraving on a grade 2. The letter "U" on the water table has confused me in the past, as it was used to signify a Grade 0 with Twist barrels and a straight stock. In this case, I don't think the U is being used to signify grade, It's shown up in in other guns. Kinda like Waldo. The Damascus barrels are really whats got me leaning towards a 2.
Buy a letter and give Chuck the final word.

I intend to get it lettered. Thanks for the input. Much appreciated.

It looks like a Grade 2 to me too.