Proof Marks on Late Damascus Barreled Guns

[Garry L Gordon]

I saw in the most recent Parker Pages Josh's list of notable serial numbers for Parker guns, one of which was a very late Damascus barreled gun with the Parker proof stamping. An implication of the listing was that not all late Parker Damascus barrels were stamped.

So, were all late Damascus barrels stamped with the proof mark? Since the factory was using remaining Damascus barrel stock, did they treat those barrels any differently in their proofing process in the mid-1920s when they were winding down using Damascus barrels?

Thanks for your thoughts.

[Dean Romig]

My impression is that Parker considered Damascus or composite barrels every bit as strong and safe as the fluid steel barrels of the day.





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[John Allen]

I have a set of damascus barrels serial number 207512. Made in 1924. They do not have any proof stamps. Just the weight of 3-15,the inspectors stamp of JV, and the number 3 stamped near the breech. No other markings except the serial number,gauge,and frame size.

[Dave Noreen]

I have a set of damascus barrels serial number 207512. Made in 1924. They do not have any proof stamps.

Wouldn't expect any at that time. The proof stamps begin appearing about 1926.

From my observations the proof stamps begin appearing in the high 216xxx range where we see first a few guns with --

TESTED PB
U.S.A.

105134

Then in the 217xxx range we begin seeing the PARKER BROS. OVERLOAD PROVED stamp --

105135

[Garry L Gordon]

Thanks, John and Dave. So, a 208XXX set of Damascus barrels would not carry the stamp based on your numbers. And, apparently, the factory went through the same proofing process for all barrels, even those later composite steel ones(?)

Is there a date established for the last set of twist barrels?

[Dave Noreen]

On page 268 of The Parker Story, the authors state the last PH with Twist Steel barrels is 234377. They don't state any other specifics