1879/82/88 Grade 0 "T" Expert Insights Appreciated

[Bennett Taylor]

All,

Recently came into possession of two Parkers after sudden loss of my Father. From what I can make out from the excellent site's information, I have gathered some guesses on all specs but looking for an expert's opinion. Both are broken at the handle but otherwise, with a basic cleaning, are in ok shape.

1. S/N 52763 (1888). frame size 2, Barrel weight 4 exponent 10, Grade - "T". Twist barrel.

2. S/N 25317 (1882), Barrel S/N Reads 14327 (1879). Frame Size 1, Frame Size 4 (no exponent), Grade "T".

I guess Grade 0 based on the "T", but unsure if Top Lever or Lifter. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

Pictures attached.

[Bill Murphy]

First, the 14,327 is not a serial number and has nothing to do with the date of manufacture. It is the order number of that gun, which is not available to us for search purposes. On your gun #2, the 4 is not the frame size, it is the barrel weight. We saw the broken stock on one gun but not the other. We would like to see that one also. Both of your guns are "top lever" guns, with the opening lever on "top". A broken stock on a low grade hammer gun is often a final blow to an otherwise wonderful gun. Good luck.

[Brian Dudley]

One point to mention is that the 25317 is whatsis considered a transition gun. This one is a top action, but has no dolls head which was typical for lifters. I have no personally seen too many top lever guns without an extension in the transition period. Usually I have seen them as lifters on the t/a frame.