Newbie Questions
 

Hi, I've got a couple questions about a Parker (its my fathers). I was wondering what the mark (number) below the serial number meant. I know the letters above are the grade, but not sure about the bottom number, its a 6 on his gun.
Thanks
Ed

Give them the serial number and a picture and they will give you a lot more information.

PDD

I think you have an A grade. The letter grade is above the serial number and the number equivalant is stamped beneath the serial number. A 7 would indicate a AA grade while a 5 would be for a B grade.

Yes it is an A grade, its an A-H. I think its a custom of some sort, it has 34 inch barrels and no safety, and a gold cap on the stock with a name inscription.

Mr. Ball, yours is a very rare Parker, the 34" barrels making it even more so. It is what is referred to as a "Live Bird Gun" and was likely ordered by someone who was a competitive shooter of some note and prowess. If you haven't already done so, I urge you to send for a PGCA Research Letter on your Parker. And please, can we see some pictures of your wonderful Parker?

Best Regards, Dean

Ed, we would really like to see a few pictures of your AH. Bob

The gold cap says Major WH Singer on it, when my dad bought the gun there was supposed to be a bunch of medals and trophies that came with it but the person couldn't find them at that time. He took the gun out to a local club a few years back and some of the gentlemen there said "Oh, you have Cournel Singers gun!" if that means anything to anyone.

Dean what is PGCA and how can I get ahold of them to see about getting a research letter?

Also I'll try and get some pictures up, I've got some now but my camera was still set on the underwater setting and looking grainey which really doesn't do the gun any justice at all!

Ed, The PGCA is Parker Gun Collectors Association. I can't help you with a research letter info because this is a new forum. Some one will give you Mark Conrad's address so you can order a research letter. Bob

Ed, go to http://parkerguns.org/ and click on "Research Letters" on the left column. It costs $60 for a non-member or $40 for a member. If you join the Parker Gun Collector's Association you not only get the letter for $20 less but you also get our quarterly glossy magazine (some people call it a "newsletter" but it is far beyond that). Members write technical articles, report on Parker related events with color photos, write stories of hunting trips and outings using Parker shotguns . . plus you can attend the Annual Meeting and Banquet and rub elbows with all the great guys who post here.
. . . but, at least send for the letter.

Dean

Thanks for the help with that, I'll definately have to pass on that option to my Father. Also I'll try to get some decent pic's of the gun shortly!