1930 Parker VH 12 Gauge

[Nick M.]

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I recently acquired a Parker in which I'm looking for some insight on. I enjoy upland hunting over my GSP and feel this gun will be a great fit (using correct loads and care, of course). I'm looking to merely preserve this Parker and utilize throughout the upland season(s)- ultimately pass it down. I spoke with a few enthusiasts, but I'm looking for general input on what you would do to preserve/refresh this piece.

So far I'm leaning towards refinishing/repairing the stock & fore-grip (small cracks on top of stock on side receiver/tang) & "chasing the checkering", but I don't want to overlook any (obvious) concerns.

My apologizes for the crude pictures as I quickly took them before dropping it off at my gunsmith for a non-invasive safety check. (Frame is 1.5, 3.8lbs)

Thank you!

[edgarspencer]

Nothing jumps out at me to suggest it's not going to be a good shooter as is, but you may find a 1 1/2 frame 12 a tad heavy for upland hunting. It'll be the ticket for roosters, or walkup shooting though.

[Dean Romig]

Originally Posted by edgarspencer

Nothing jumps out at me to suggest it's not going to be a good shooter as is, but you may find a 1 1/2 frame 12 a tad heavy for upland hunting.

Maybe it's heavy for old duffers like you and me Edgar, but not so much for a strapping young feller.





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[Bruce Day]

It will make a good pheasant gun particularly for late season and long range. I often use a 2 frame , 30 inch Damascus barreled GHE for that.

But the first thing I would do is get rid of those ugly black splotches on the frame table and trigger guard tang.

[Nick M.]

Thanks everyone!

[GH-16]

First off let me welcome you to the group & congratulate you on acquiring your first Parker. Believe me when I say it won't be your last one, you're forewarned!

On a quick glance your gun looks to be a good solid shooter grade/condition gun. I feel you are on the right track about refinishing the wood being as most of the original finish is missing. If your a handy guy you can do the work yourself. There is a good tutorial here on the site for disassembly of the gun. I would suggest getting a good set of gunsmithing screwdrivers like those from Brownell's before you start. You will need good fitting screw drivers to preserve the screw slots.

You say there is some cracks in the wood. Be sure to get all of the oil out of the wood before attempting any glue type of repairs. Keep sanding of the wood to a minimum, it's really easy to over sand the wood & round of areas that shouldn't be rounded. The guy's here have a lot of knowledge for these type of things and feel free to ask questions as they come up.

Another thing to keep in mind is if you decide to contract the finish or repair work. Be sure to use a gunsmith that is familiar with Parkers or other SxS's. Also be aware that most of the go to Parker smiths are very busy & it may take a long time line to have the work done.

You've got a great start & I wish you many great days afield with your Parker & GSP.

[Nick M.]

Originally Posted by Paul Ehlers

First off let me welcome you to the group & congratulate you on acquiring your first Parker. Believe me when I say it won't be your last one, you're forewarned!

On a quick glance your gun looks to be a good solid shooter grade/condition gun. I feel you are on the right track about refinishing the wood being as most of the original finish is missing. If your a handy guy you can do the work yourself. There is a good tutorial here on the site for disassembly of the gun. I would suggest getting a good set of gunsmithing screwdrivers like those from Brownell's before you start. You will need good fitting screw drivers to preserve the screw slots.

You say there is some cracks in the wood. Be sure to get all of the oil out of the wood before attempting any glue type of repairs. Keep sanding of the wood to a minimum, it's really easy to over sand the wood & round of areas that shouldn't be rounded. The guy's here have a lot of knowledge for these type of things and feel free to ask questions as they come up.

Another thing to keep in mind is if you decide to contract the finish or repair work. Be sure to use a gunsmith that is familiar with Parkers or other SxS's. Also be aware that most of the go to Parker smiths are very busy & it may take a long time line to have the work done.

You've got a great start & I wish you many great days afield with your Parker & GSP.

Thank you, Paul. I've been in contact with Brian. We are going to touch base again in a few weeks to work on a POA!