Parker Repro v. Winchester Model 23
 

Looking for a 28 gauge SXS for grouse/woodcock and wonder what gun would be the better purchase, Parker Repro or Winchester Model 23? They are similarly priced, both made in Japan, available in same configurations and have like stock dimensions. I own one of each now, PR 20 ga. and Win M23 12 gauge and I like'em both. Would love to hear your opinions. Decisions, decisions, decisions...

This is not a PR specific topic but if moderator wants to dump this thread in the PR category that's fine.

That's a hard one for sure!

The 23's are great guns and the Golden Quail is so nicely finished... but me being a Parker guy, I know what I would choose - as long as I could choose the configuration and wood grade, I'd choose the Parker Repro.





.

I would choose the Parker Repro, but that is just me.

All things being equal, I would go Parker, if not for the re-sale value only.

IMO most 23's don't have wood that's anything near the repros.. Also, not 100% sure but weren't all 23's beavertail?

I was thinking of getting a Parker Reproduction 28-gauge, but then I handled the Model 23 Classic in 28-gauge at the April 1986 NRA Convention in New Orleans, and ended up getting those in 28-gauge and .410-bore.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v3...loguepage4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v3...loguepage5.jpg

I will say the Model 23's single trigger isn't as crisp as I would like. Doesn't bother me if they are the first gun I shoot in a day, but if I've been shooting something with a nice crisp trigger and then go to one of my Model 23s it is noticeable. Nothing one would ever notice shooting at game.

We know that a 28-ga. Repro will weigh about 5 1/2 lbs. What will a 28-ga. Winchester Model 23 weigh?

The Model 23's are very, very heavy.
I had both the classic and the Golden Quail in 28 and .410.
If I remember correctly, they were well over 6, closer to 7 pounds.
I now have neither. Go Repro.

Between the two I'd take the Parker. If considering other makers I'd look at some of the Spanish guns such as AYA, Grulla and Arietta.

When the Classic Model 23 was on the market, I found one in a Baltimore gun store, a Winchester and Repro distributor. He had a .410 Classic that had had it's chokes relieved. I asked a shooting buddy whether he would be interested in such a gun. He said he would like it because he would prefer the more open chokes. I made an offer for $700 and it was accepted. My friend still has it and I would sure like to get it away from him. Good grief, they are almost five grand now.