Chamber Length 12 Guage
 

I have two Parker VH in 12 gauge, both on #2 frames. Serial numbers are 117628 and 161588 I am not seeing chamber length information on the barrels. The 117628 has 30" barrels which appear to be marked 4#. The 161588 has 28" barrels which appear to be marked 3# 12 oz. I have read earlier posts on chamber length of 2 5/8 which are okay to shoot with target or light hunting loads in 2 3/4 length. Should both sets of barrels be marked for chamber length?

I see that both sets of barrels are made to the stout 2-frame. As such both sets of barrels are fine for shooting 2 3/4" shells providing barrel wall thickness is sufficient. They should have originally been either 2 5/8" chambers or 2 9/16". Both of those will accept and shoot 2 3/4" shells without compromise.

161588 is a Trojan, not a VH. As I recall, only late Remington Parkers had the chamber length stamped on the barrel lug. Try measuring the chamber length. Take a small flat machinist ruler and put it in the chamber until it meets the start of the forcing cone. Using a flash light shining from the muzzle helps to see the start of the forcing cone.

You mention both guns are VH grade, however the barrels pictured in the top photo are marked OV which is for Trojan Steel.

2-3/4" shells are fine to shoot out of 2-5/8" chambers in Fluid steel barrels.

And Damascus barrels too, as long as the barrels have sufficient wall thickness and front of chamber wall thickness.

Thanks for the quick response for my newbie questions. While low end both of these guns "fit me" and are greatly appreciated.

Dont think there is such a thing as "low end Parker', some are just nicer than others.
Most of us would proudly carry our VH and Trojans. Shoot them proudly.