Parker with a replacement stock - still shoot low pressure shells?

[will evans]

When you replace a stock with newer wood, do you still need to shoot low pressure loads? I've got a VH #1 frame 12ga that had the chambers opened before I picked up the gun. Bores are in good shape. Would you worry very much about shooting 2-3/4 Winchester or Remington shells from Dick's in the gun if the stock were replaced with newer wood?

Where is my risk? Rib seperation?

[Daryl Corona]

When you replace a stock with newer wood, do you still need to shoot low pressure loads? I've got a VH #1 frame 12ga that had the chambers opened before I picked up the gun. Bores are in good shape. Would you worry very much about shooting 2-3/4 Winchester or Remington shells from Dick's in the gun if the stock were replaced with newer wood?

Where is my risk? Rib seperation?

No, just your shoulder. A "1" frame just begs for light loads, 3/4 or 7/8oz. They are a real pleasure to shoot.

[Brian Dudley]

Really, if your original stock has no issues, there is no reason you cannot shoot factory target loads out of it now.

[will evans]

Really, if your original stock has no issues, there is no reason you cannot shoot factory target loads out of it now.

Brian, I am concerned a little about the stock. It has turned up a small crack behind the tang. This week is the first time I have carried the gun, or even shot it for that matter. I cannot tell if the crack is old and was covered with a concealer, which would have been removed while carrying the gun. I tend to hold my thumb right where the crack is behind the tang and safety, so a light finish coat would have probably been rubbed right off pretty quickly. I was using RST 2-1/2" shells at the time, and probably put 12 rounds down the tubes. After my first few I was inspecting the stock and noticed the crack. Looks old, and might even be glued but I haven't removed the stock. I continued using the gun to monitor the spot, and it doesn't appear to have spread at all. The finish is mostly gone, and the toe has an old chip. I was thinking I might give you a call to discuss my options.

[Brian Dudley]

If the wood is mushroomed up or chipped out behind the tang, then it is caused by recoil. Which usually will not be common unless there is poor wood to metal fit at the front of the stock. If it is a single crack, going back from the tang, it could be something as minor as a surface crack that just opened up over time with swelling and shrinking of the wood. Ot t could be the end of a larger crack that is inside the head. As in the head of the stock may be split and spreading.
Is there any sign of the head spreading? Such as gaps between the wood an metal along the tang up near the frame? Or is any movement evident side to side between the action and the stock?

[will evans]

Brian,

Sent out 4 emails this morning for your opinion. Head doesn't appear to be spreading, nor is the stock loose even a bit.