Looking for help with a Ejection Equipped Forearm

[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Guys I picked up a DHE a while back that was missing its forearm. I found one in the UK for a VHE, but since I don’t currently own one I don’t know if it looks complete. If someone can tell by these photos please advise.

[Brian Dudley]

It appears complete. I cannot speak for what cannot be seen inside.

The most inportant thing is verifying it is correct frame size for you. Some parts interchange, some do not.

[Dean Romig]

There could be a timing or cocking problem with the ejector hammers.




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[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Thanks guys. Brian Yes I figured as much. I ran the serial number in my book and it comes back to a 12ga VHE manufactured in 1916. I need a frame size 2, so there’s a chance I’ll get lucky. If not maybe I can use the parts in another iron frame. It’s a little worn and rusted but it doesn’t look too bad. If I’m not lucky at all I’m sure someone else will need one and maybe I can do a swap.

[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Thanks guys. Brian Yes I figured as much. I ran the serial number in my book and it comes back to a 12ga VHE manufactured in 1916. I need a frame size 2, so there’s a chance I’ll get lucky. If not maybe I can use the parts in another iron frame. It’s a little worn and rusted but it doesn’t look too bad.

[Gerald McPherson]

Engraving looks higher than a VHE when the photo is enlarged. And the checkering is not like a VHE.

[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Yes, I noticed that as well, but the serial number shows that it left the Parker factory as a 12ga VH with extra code 2 which is for ejectors. Now one of the owners may have had it dressed up with more engraving at some point. The British gunsmith I bought it from said he'd salvaged it from a gun some years ago and he was just clearing out his parts bins. I asked if he had any other Parker parts and he said no.

[Gerald McPherson]

The book is often wrong. Look at close numbers for higher grade. 174286 is not in my book but shows a string of TI3 around that number so proubly a D or grade 3 Gun. There are records for it, so a letter is available.

[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Yes, I noticed that as well, but the seller did confirm that it was off of a VHE he had several years ago. Also if you look close at the engraving on the latch release latch you'll notice that the engraving isn't what is commonly found on Parker Brothers guns, with exception of the A and B grade models and above. Most Parker guns have more delicate surface line scrolling rather than what is referred to a Relief Engraving, which is much more in depth with material removal included that gives a better three dimensional image. The engraving here although very worn looks to be of that relief style. Secondly, I have compared it to other Parker's and although it is similar in style to the A and B grade Parkers it doesn't match them either. Thirdly, you can see material degradation around the tips and ends of that latch. Those Parker latches are relatively thick metal and this is the first one I've seen that is deuterated like this even on old guns that have rusted away. It is possible that an aftermarket engraver ground away the old VH x border and lines to give him a clean area to engrave.

[Brian Dudley]

The forend latch looks damaged and is heavily pitted. It should be considered a loss. And the wood is not original.
Ultimately you are after the iron and ejector parts, but that is about all the package has to offer of any value.

[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Brian, Thanks and yes that was my thought as well. I already have acquired a new DHE forearm wood that came from a 12ga of the correct frame size 2. I will continue looking for a new latch to replace this one. As long as the ejector parts are correct and serviceable I will have what I need to move forward. Thanks again for your assistance.

[Brian Dudley]

If you end up needing a latch assembly, let me know.

[Elvin Ehrhardt]

Will do, Thanks Brian.