Information on early Laminated Steel Parker
 

I am helping a friend get some information about an early 10 Gauge Parker Shotgun. It is S/N A 696 with 36" Laminated Steel Barrels. At some point, it has been modified with a stock extension. I have included the attached pictures to help identify the grade. She inherited this from her Grandfather many years ago. She also has several of the original loading tools, brass hulls and original rough condition wood case.
BTW- This is a great web site and I am impressed with the firearms knowledge here. Any help would be appreciated.

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You have what is referred to as a "back-action lifter".

You can find a little information about it if you go to the main page at www.parkerguns.org and click on the link on the left side named "Parker Grades". When the link comes up, scroll down near the bottom of the page a read the section "Dollar Grades, T-latch and Back-action". Admittedly, there isn't a great amount of information there but it should get you started.

Dan,

I am inclined to believe the stock was cut either for a youth of for a better fit in winter with heavy clothing. It looks as it what was cut off has been replaced with the original stock. A great early Parker. The tools and wooden case are a plus. Something I lust. A696 is not in the book which means nothing as the book didn't start until more than twice that many serial numbers. Robin is spot on in recommending Parker Grades. Unfortunately, there is nothing in the record to warrant a research letter. Please don't do anything to try and improve the looks of what you have. The value of many Parkers has been devalued by good intentions.
Kindest,
Harry

Thanks for the feedback. Here are some pictures of the tools and remains of the original case.

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Any idea what the Parker along with the tools and case would be worth? The owner currently displays the shotgun and tools in a small breakfast nook full of family antiques. I have been trying to talk her into investing in ether a safe or getting an additional insurance rider.

nice gun with lots of history..i love those long barrels....charlie

There are those on this forum that could restore the case. IMHO that would be a wise investment. But like Harry said don't do anything to the gun until you have it evaluated by one of the experts

That gun has to be one of the first few 36" guns made

i ll secound that...i like the long barrells...charlie

Wife and I just returned from a trip to Tybee Island for our 25th Wedding Anniversary.

Any recommendations on who we can take this Parker Shotgun to for a professional appraisal? We are in North Central Indiana.

Dan,
I am in Valparaiso. I will be glad to look at your gun.
219-465-8558.
Jeff