Beginner here, with new to me Parker DH
 

I'm wondering where I can find some instruction on properly cleaning up my new gun. I've owned many guns but not a collector like this. It is in "as found" condition. I want to clean it up but not do anything that would detract from the value. It isn't even in my possession yet, I expect it will be later next week. I just want to have some knowledge on what to do and not and gather any needed supplies. If someone can point me to a section of the forum or an FAQ or article it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

The best way for you to start would be by posing good photos here so that we may see what you are working with. Apart from having the gun mechanically cleaned and looked over for good function, there is not much that can be suggested without actually seeing it.

Anything beyond that would effect value. Either positively or negatively.

Thank you Mr. Dudley. here are some pics from the ad, fortunately I have a good camera and will be able to post some more pics after I get the gun.

http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...psjymocrmi.jpg

http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...psbb4kdvil.jpg

http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...psdmdf3ayi.jpg

http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/x...psl8nmdhy8.jpg

Hope these help. Again, any input is welcome. As I mentioned, I own many guns and know how to clean a hunting weapon but I'm concerned about a collectible like this one. I know there are many do's and don'ts. I want to do the right ones and don't do the wrong ones. I know the gun needs some professional help and as finances permit those will be tended to.

Based on the little I see, the stock looks to be in very good shape. Unfourtunately, the frame looks to have virtually no original finish left on it and rust has taken its toll over the years and created pitting problems. The engraving looks to have a bit of west in areas as well. I would say that there is nothing you can do to hurt the value of the gun as far as metal condition since the damage has already been done. That statement relates to cleaning and such. Obviously buffing and filing is bad.

Something that the gun could benefit from is the replacement of screws since some of them are in bad shape. But then you start getting into restoration territory.

What is the gauge and frame size of this ? Looks to be smaller than 12 gauge .

It is a 10ga. with 30" bbls. #3 Frame.


Mr. Dudley:
Thank you for the advice, I knew the frame was the weakest point condition wise, I'm hoping when I get it in my hands it will look a little better!

I will take several "before" pics as soon as it arrives and post them here so I can benefit from everyone's great advice. I just officially became a PGCA member about 2am today!

Thanks in advance.

for the rust on the action - to not further damages the engraving - barrels

use a Frontier pad

http://www.exploreproducts.com/big45...un-cleaner.htm

Well I got that backwards ! Cal must have large hands, and I like the gun too !

Cal: you will soon have what will be a nice 'shooter', but very few 100 year old guns couldn't benefit from a disassembly and cleaning by a doublegun / Parker specialist like Brian Dudley. And before use it is obligatory to have the wall thickness of the barrels checked.

Clean up tips that might help
http://www.lcsmith.org/faq/cleangun2.html

And BTW: someone may certainly use my suggestions on the Smith site as a starting place for Parker specific cleaning for the FAQ on the Home Page here.