Hash Marks on VHE Beavertail Checkering
 

I have a 1935 12 gauge Skeet VHE. The beavertail forearm appears to be original except for the large hash marks at the front of the checkering. The wood apparently was refinished at some point as some of the finish is wearing off. Looking for some opinions as to leave it alone, or have the hash marks removed/blended to make look original? I have learned a lot about the few Parkers I have aquired over the years since joining the Association last year. All started years ago when my father passed my grandfather’s VH (with oringinal hang tags) to me. All I remember is dad saying they were quality shotguns.
Thanks for any input.
Tom B.

Maybe they were put there as some kind of reference so the shooter would consistently hold the forend in the same place? I like that kind of stuff, it meant something to somebody sometime. Looks like a great gun, I'd let it be.

The gun looks to be in very good condition. The only thing I would try if it bothers you that much is to try and steam them out very carefully. They won't be removed completely but just might lift them so they are'nt as prominent.

Daryl, I think those are cut into the wood, if so you can't steam cut grain. I would leave it as it is part of the history of the gun. Just my two cents.

I agree with Chris. I'd leave them be. However, if they bother you, I think trying to blend the wood to remove them could ruin the shape, as they look pretty deep. I believe the best way would be to extend the checkering forward of them, and recut. There's so much un-checkered wood, it wouldn't look out of place.

That is a darn shame.

Parker checkering patterns were laid out with a template and to extend the checkering to hide the hash marks would look WAY out of place.

IMO just leave it, otherwise you would be sacrificing the gun's originality.





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There's a story there--you just don't know it yet. I'd let it be and enjoy the intrique.

Thanks for your thoughts. Like I mentioned, I never gave the hash marks a lot of though until I joined the Associated and wanted to learn more about my Parkers. I have reached out to the gun shop where I purchased the shotgun for any history. It was on consignment, I believe as part of an estate. I offered $1,600.00 and was told “the family” accepted my offer. Also, now requesting a research letter that may shine more light on this gun. I plan to leave the hash marks.
Tom B.

Wow, reqlly nice gun at that price!!! Congrats!,,