1891 Parker
 

Just picked up a 1891 Parker 12 Ga with all matching serial numbers in great condition. Serial #68745

Other than the buggered screws, it's a nice one.

I am a bit of a newby - help me out on the buggered screws?

Screws that are not timed and have their slots messed up. From improper tools being used to turn them.

ok thanks - now define timed for me.

Screws pointing towards the front of the gun. The only screws on a Parker that are not to point that way are the hammer screws which point straight up and down.

Lots of learning here to go for me

Steven, one of the things you will learn is that the majority of 110+ year old Parkers will have a buggered screw or two. Don't let the screws detract from your excitement of the purchase. The screws can be redressed and properly aligned.
What is the current barrel length? They appear about 26 inches, which would likely mean they have been shortened and may have little if any choke left. The serial number is not listed in the serialization book so I can't tell you what length they were originally.

"What is the current barrel length? They appear about 26 inches,"

I only see pics of the frame, breech end and water table. Anyway congrats on your new Parker. Are you planning on hunting with this gun?

that gun does look nice, should make a great shooter/hunting gun. Just think what kind of shape you'll be in when you are 110. I'd be proud to own and shoot that one.

good morning all, the barrel length is 28". What other photos do you all desire?

Steven, a close up picture of the top rib at the barrel end, specifically, just ahead of the front sight. And a picture of the muzzle end of barrels looking direct on. That could give an idea if the barrels are original length.

Pic's attached - appreciate the help

Bbls appear uncut to my eyes. Good gun

Erick

I agree with Erick, the barrels appear to be original length.
That's a nice gun you have there.

There is a decent possibility this gun use to be my fathers gun that I have been searching for.

George, I mailed in the form yesterday. Thanks

My "new" 1891 Parker
 

I was very interested to see your gun. Today, I just acquired GHE, no. 68088. It is very close to yours. I will post pictures. Good luck with your gun! This is my first Parker and although it's Damascus, the bores are in mirror finish condition. I'm going to shoot trap with it on Tuesday, using 2 1/2" Vintager loads.

Don - post some pictures please. good luck with the trap

Thanks, Steve. I may have misspoken. My gun is actually a GH, as it has extractors, not ejectors. I'll take some pix today.

Don - where are your photos?

Parker Photos
 

Hi Steve,
I have taken the pictures and I finally took the gun to the range. I used the Vintager 2 1/2 inch shells, from Polywad, inc. and after some adjustments and settling down, the gun is a joy to shoot, willing to break every bird. It likes to be right on the bird, unlike my Model 12 Trap, which needs to be slightly below. I haven't gauged the barrels, but it appears that the left barrel is full choke and the right is modified. I'll try to get those pix up by this evening.
Don

Don
Thanks and thanks for the lead to Polywad - I just ordered four boxes of shells.

Parker photos
 

Steve,
I finally posted photos of the GH, under the heading, "Parker GH 68088". I'm glad that you contacted Polywad. You will be well satisfied with their product.

Great photos and a beautiful gun, where did you get the gun stands from?

Gun stands
 

Steve,
bought the stands from heritagecasecompany.com. They are made to order and priced at $40.00 a pair. Very nicely made.

Received my research letter - very cool!
originally ordered and purchased by E.R.Parker of Scranton PA now the search begins.

Research Letter
 

Steve,
I'm envious. I plan to order my letter as soon as Chuck gives the green light, having recovered sufficiently from surgery. I received my forend spring from Brian Dudley and after some minor filing, it slipped right into place. Thanks again Brian. I'm going to put some photos up of my forend, which is devoid of checkering. There is a ghost of the original pattern. I'd like to get some input from the forum, as to whether or not I should get it recut. My inclination is to leave it alone. I have had woodwork done by Clint Meier, in Missouri. Heckuva nice guy and a master checkerer and woodworker. Anyway, I'm eager to get my letter and I'll let you know when it comes.
Best To All,
Don

Donald, go ahead and send in your request. I just don't want to be inundated right now but I can do requests like yours. It's the guys that have had there guns for a long time and finally decided to get letters that I'm trying to discourage right now until I have better use of my arm and hand.