Ed Muderlak's Old Reliable book has on pg 209 a photo of an A-1 that is 'sound, original, and well used' and indeed has plenty of wear. Doesn't say whose gun it was.

Actually, I don't have a problem with wear on any gun regardless of grade if it was reached through 'honest' use in the field or range. Then again....we all know a gun can be used and kept in nice shape so when I see a gun that is 'worn' with years of handling nicks and scratches I can't help but wonder why the owner didn't care for it better.

A rich guy can buy and 'use up' an A-1 Parker but I'll still have more respect for the poor guy who cares for a Trojan. Someday they'll both stand at the Pearly Gates...

I have an acquaintance who has many guns and collections of knives, decoys, etc. He says his goal in life is to wear them all out. Can't say that I disagree with that sentiment. Problem is, I have too many guns and too few years to get to that goal. If I had an AAHE or other high grade Parker, I'd sure try to use it as much as I could and let the next owner worry about refurbishing it.

[QUOTE=greg conomos;182681]Ed Muderlak's Old Reliable book has on pg 209 a photo of an A-1 that is 'sound, original, and well used' and indeed has plenty of wear. Doesn't say whose gun it was.

This is in fact the Fleischmann gun; a better photo with ID can be found on the unnumbered facing page preceeding page 127 in the same book.

The double gun journal Autumn 2007 has the "Parkers at the end of the Rainbow" article by Cote' and Herschel Chadick. It shows pictures of all gauges A1 specials and it includes the Fleishmann 28 gauge. Is that the Fleishmann gun you are speaking of? I believe they even sold a video of those guns and I'm sure this is old news to most of you but that article is a great look at a collection of A1 guns in all their glory. It is well worth getting if you can find it. Does anyone know if that video is available?

Call Daniel or Joanna Cote and ask if it is still available.

The Fleischmann gun discussed here is a twenty-gauge, two-barrel set.





.

The video is good and I think it is still available. There are not chapters to skip around on the DVD which is problematic.

If you are looking for help to wear them out, I volunteer! :bigbye:

John, When I get the AAHE, you'll be the first to know!

its sad but most most of us will only get to see pictures of these guns or go to a musem and read the sign do not touch...i would love to finda high grade gun in bad shape maybe i could afford it and do the best i could with it...charlie

Still interested in the wall thickness and how it compares to original.