New Parker owner needs help
 

I just purchased a Parker 12 ga Double Barrel with 30" Damascus barrels. I haven't received it yet but the description says "P grade built on a no.1 frame". The serial number they gave was 65xx5 which I see was made in 1891. The wood is good. I am attaching some pics to see if anyone can give me an idea if this gun can be shot, what % condition would you grade it and an approximate value. I appreciate any help I can get. Thanks, Bill

When you receive the serial number and make some close up pictures, you will get a lot more help. From what I can see, the checkering is gone , the rest of the gun looks ok. Value $400-$600

PDD

Whether it is "safe to shoot" or not depends largely on the condition of the gun. Best thing to do is have a gunsmith that knows Parker take a good look at the gun and give you an opinion. Most of us shoot lower pressure loads to extend the life of the gun and to guard against possible problems caused by higher pressures.
Let us know where you live and someone can recommend a 'smith.
Congratulations and good shooting down the road!

A real gunsmith will measure the barrel wall thickness and work from there.

Good advice from both Linnn & Bill. Get it to a good gunsmith before trying to shoot it. It looks to be in generally good condition.

Best Regards, George

new pics
 

Here are some new pics I took to help determine what I have and it's approximate value. The barrels measure 28" not 30 as originally thought. Any Info would be appreciated. Thanks.

Bill, I shoot and reload for a 12 bore L C Smith hammer gun made after 1913 with twist damascus bbls. Please have the bbls. measured for wall thickness- especially the first 14 inches in front of the chambers- as this is where the peak pressure will occur. Mine measure .31 and .32 at the thinnest points. Be cautious and be safe.:)

Is that a surface rust spot, or actual pitting on the left barrel?

It is actually a dark swirl of the barrel twisting. There is no rust or pitting that I can find.

A damaged or pitted area "welded up"?