Need Help With Markings on Barrel Lug

Kerilynn Viccione · 03-28-2015, 03:36 PM

Hello all, I am trying to determine the markings on my Parker 12ga barrel lug. The shotgun was made in 1875, and I know that many of the later markings are not present on these early plain steel models.

Having said that, there are two distint markings on the lug. The first is an "S". It is very different from a "2", which my first thought, and it is sideways next to an "O" or a "0"- not sure if it is the number zero or letter O.

I have checked every resource I can find; I'm hoping someone can help me understand what this means. I can post a picture if that would help (this is my first thread, so not sure how much to post).

Much appreciated in advance!

George M. Purtill Member #28 · 03-28-2015, 04:06 PM

Can you post a picture?

Kerilynn Viccione · 03-28-2015, 04:17 PM

Sure- thanks for checking it out...

B. Dudley · 03-28-2015, 04:30 PM

Your gun is an early lifter. It is from a period either before the frame size was marked, or it was not consistently marked. The O on your gun is not the frame size.

Kerilynn Viccione · 03-28-2015, 04:47 PM

Thank you very much

Autumn Daze · 03-28-2015, 05:53 PM

Kerilynn, The "S" stamped on the lug is the inspectors mark for John Stokes. An contractor/employee of Parker Bros. at the time this gun was built.

What I find interesting is the F9R marking on the forward part of the lug. We usually see this on the frame water table. I don't know if I have ever seen it marked on the lug or anywhere else for that matter. Another clue....

Kerilynn Viccione · 03-28-2015, 06:58 PM

Thank you, that is very interesting. I'll have fun researching some more.

As for the F9R, I have never seen it in that location either, but couldn't find any info about that placement. I figured it had to do with the timeframe when this was manufactured. It doesn't seem to have many of the typical markings or placement. The F9R also a bit smaller than other markings I've seen.

Kerilynn Viccione · 03-29-2015, 01:14 PM

Mr. Suponski,

I have one more question, if you don't mind. There are two initials above the barrel weight that are only partly visible. Any idea what or who they would refer to as a general rule?

I've attached a picture.

Thank you...

Kerilynn

George M. Purtill Member #28 · 03-29-2015, 01:31 PM

That is a weird place for the barrel weights. Usually it is to the right on the flat area.

Kerilynn Viccione · 03-29-2015, 01:36 PM

Hello Mr. Purtill,
I'm finding there are quite a few odd identification placements and markings on this 12gauge. It's been very interesting to research. Quite a puzzle at times.
Kerilynn