Modified Parker for sporting clays?

[Cliff Koehler]

Guys,

Thanks for the replies. Great advice.

I had not thought about the possibility of the gun having a famous trapshooter/owner. All the more reason to get in contact with the current owner.

I should clarify my intentions. The collectibility of this gun is a secondary concern. My interest is in shooting the gun at SxS sporting clay events before or after shooting the main event with my Beretta O/U. I just happen to like vintage Winchesters and Parkers. If I own it, the gun will get used!

Therefore, I am thankful for receiving tips on how to evaluate this gun as a solid shooter. The gun fits me as currently stocked. Most vintage Parkers have too much drop. All I see is the back of the receiver...no bead or barrels. I shoot single trigger guns so the Miller trigger is the deal-maker or deal-breaker...if it is unreliable!

Ultimately I will reach some conclusion of what the gun is worth to me. But like everyone else, I don't want to get taken to the cleaners. As a solid shooter, I am thinking $1,200-$1,500. Does that seem right?

The smart thing to do would be to spend a little more and acquire a Beretta 471 Silver Hawk for my purposes. But I find the idea of shooting clays with a 100+ year old Parker very appealing!

Cliff