These lower grade Parker stock heads failed because of the properties of Black Walnut. And there were many means of "repair". A staple is one. But not the most durable with the glues of those days.

Cross-bolts of some sort were ugly... but they generally held.

Today, we have other means -- and Mark Larson to make them invisible!

I just repaired a split DH a couple days ago with an internal staple. It was a gun with a split head that someone with a pin hadn't gotten to yet. That is half the battle these days.

For some additional photos of the amazing before and after stock work that Mark did on this gun, go to the Restoration forum and look at my new thread regarding this 16 gauge VHE restoration. To my eye, the new wood finish really "pops" when contrasted with the new case colors.

Justin: It looks like you took a so-so gun and turned into a very nice keeper. If I may ask so to put this in perspective ,what was the cost? Thomas

Justin: thanks for your PM.Thomas