Need Parker Replacement Rib

[Justin Julian]

Hello. I have a 12 gauge Parker D grade with 30" titanic barrels. A previous owner apparently concluded that his trap scores would improve if only he had an after market ventilated rib. The rest is history, and so is the beautiful original Parker rib, which was drilled every couple inches to accomodate the vent rib's support posts. Anyone have or know where I might obtain a suitable Parker rib for a replacement? I've looked into having the original rib repaired or a new one manufactured from scratch, and the responses were that it was either not feasible or cost prohibitive. Thanks.

[Bill Murphy]

Send us some pictures of the installation. If it is not a bad rib, it will probably be best to leave it on unless the gun is very high original condition. D Grade Parkers suitable for competition shooting are in demand and the gun, regardless of the non original rib, still has good value. What are the other features of the gun?

[Justin Julian]

Bill-
Its a Parker DHE, with Miller SST and very nice sharp engraving. Its originality is in short supply, as its stock was cut short and repaired at the wrist with a dowel, along with the ventilated rib issue. The bores are mirror bright and lock up is solid with the top lever centered. I tried to attach some photos and realized that I don't know how to use the format provided. My email is Hunfishoot@yahoo.com. Email me and I'll respond with some pics of the rib. This gun is not sentimental to me. But I thought that if I could restore the rib at a reasonable cost, it would just be the right thing to do for a nice old Parker. In addition to that, I must admit that I do not like ventilated ribs on vintage doubles, even when factory original.

[Mark Ouellette]

Justin,

Contact Brad Bachelder, www.bacheldermastergunmakers.com He may be able to help you.

Mark