DH Parker 10Ga

[Jim Sexton]

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=421390292
I'm a new subscriber and need help valueing this gun on GB. I would like to start investing in valuable guns and note that Parker has a reputation in investment quality. Any input would really help. This Parker with the letter looks to be the real deal, but I would like an expert's advise on value regarding condition , authanticity and restoration(if any). Any help is very much appreciated. Jim

[Brian Dudley]

The gun you pasted about is a 12g. Not a 10g.
Just some things I notice about the gun. The stock head has been pinned and checkered over to hide the pin. And not so expertly I might add. The pin is visible on the left side of the head. Just a note, that checkered side panels would have been special order on any grade below BH. But this job would never be confused for factory work.
Also, the recoil pad is an additon. Stock is likely cut as well. The redhead pad woild not be a period correct pad for this gun. And if it had a pad originally it would be noted in the letter. This gun would originally have an SSBP.

Positives about the gun are some good remaining case color.

The factory "cleaning out of the barrels" mentioned in the letter is likely means honing. So bore diameter and wall thickness should be checked on this gun.

Given the obvious issue with the gun, I do not think it to be a stellar buy at that price.

[Gerald McPherson]

I would pass on that one and I am no expert. Go to Parker grades and take a look at the DH hammerless pics. You will see what it should look like.

[Jim Sexton]

thanks for the info. i'll keep looking. help is always appreciated!!!!!

[Jim Sexton]

any thing out there on GB let me know if I should bid. Thanks again. Jim

[Scott Fox]

If you were to become a member in the PGCA you would have access to the for sale section. I have seen a great number of very nice Parker's that you just wont find on GB.

[Brian Dudley]

Xxx

[Patrick Butler]

Joining the Parker Gun Collectors Association will, if do start buying doubles, be the best few dollars you could possibly invest.
As mentioned, as a member you have access to several blogs (i.e., Parkers and other doubles for sale) that are not open to non-members, and some good buys can be found here if you are patient and check the site frequently. Members very often list Parkers for sale here before them place them on public sites.
An investment Parker would be a higher grade (as in expensive) firearm that has had little if any restoration done. I would buy the major books on the subject (there are several great ones) or at least the latest; "Parker Guns, 'The Old Reliable' ", by Ed Muderlak. I would also buy the "Parker Gun Identification & Serialization" by Price and Fjestad, which lists most Parkers made and will tell you much re the original gun, i.e. the length of the barrels and grade. Last, the latest edition of the "Blue Book of Gun Values" by Fjestad will give you an idea of value and grade.
Get ready to spend some serious money and always ask for the three days to have the Parker checked out by a competent gunsmith.

[Brian Dudley]

The best book for the reader on a budget is Ed's "Old Reliable". And the best book hands down is The Parker Story.
The serialization book is a great resource to use when looking at a particular gun.

[Dave Suponski]

Jim, Patrick gives good advice. Go slow and ask questions here.There is much to learn before making a purchase.As far as the gun in the above link I think I would pass as my first Parker.

[Craig Larter]

If you have to ask if the subject gun is of investment quality, you need to spend way more time and effort educating yourself. To think that collectors are going to point out investment grade guns for your purchase is unrealistic in my opinion. There is considerable competition for such guns. The best advice you have received is slow down and educate yourself. Welcome to the collecting community.

[Jim Sexton]

Thanks for all the input. Think I'll join PGCA.
Thanks again, Jim