Doug:

Is this the grip carving you mean?

No ebony insert on the bullseye on this one, in fact I have not seen an ebony insert in any bullseye, but I've only seen three of these guns. They are rare, and I understand most Parker collectors have never seen a gun with this grip carving.

Bruce:

That is the carving that was on this gun. The "bulls eye" on this gun was very dark and in the light that I saw it I thought it could be ebony. The clam shell carving on the bottom was very pretty, I had never seen this in real life before.

Thank you for the picture!

Kevin:

This is an excellent idea. As the man voted most likely to get stuck with the metal work on this project, I thank you.


Best regards,

Glenn

Both of you, Doug and Glenn, do excellent work, but I suspect this one could be your most difficult, particularly the wood. If a person was to hire it done, it would be extraordinarily costly. The metal sculpting on this grade is also extraordinary.

Bruce:

Thanks for the kind words.

If you do make it to the Southern, be sure to look us up. We are going to bring the Gibbs Farquharson for show and tell.

Best,

Glenn

Glenn,

Talk to Russ Bickel about the trigger guard, he's the guru on those. I've seen some he's worked up and repaired, amazing stuff.


Destry

By the way, the B grade Parker lifter pictured above was a 12 ga with the metal in as good condition as the wood, good case colors left, and was purchased for $13,000. Skeleton butt, 30" fine damascus, no refinishing needed. I know the buyer did not hesitate and thought it was a very fair price.

Doug,
You might consider either to replace the trigger guard with one from a lower grade and have it properly engraved or make a new replica complete from scratch. I know you have the skills for that.

To all, I really appreciate the responses that I've received.

It's unlikely that I will become the owner of this fine old Parker. It does need a lot of work which the current owner is aware of but it is a family heirloom and they are not anxious to part with it. I respect and understand their feelings! I have asked to have first chance at the Parker if they decide to part with it.