Reproductions
 

I have a reproduction question. The stock on my Parker 16 guage, VH, 0, serial number 174,124, Vulcan steel is in excellent shape. The pics attached show the condition. Does this matter if not the original? I will follow with pics

16 guage Parker
 

16 Guage Parker stock

The stock appears to be in good condition but it’s not checkered and the pad is not one you wound find on an original Parker. Also, the shape doesn’t seem quite right. So if you are asking if it matters in respect to value, the answer is absolutely. Probably wouldn’t be expensive to have the stock stripped, checkered, and a correct pad installed but the stock, as is, detracts from the value of the gun. The bigger issue I see is it appears the entire gun has been blued. All of the metal.

Thank you

Do you think it’s possible to find an original stock that goes with this gun?

Possible, yes. But personally I don’t think would bother unless you are planning to refinish the entire gun, meaning having all of the metal stripped down to bare metal and then refinished. And given what’s been done to the metal, I would want to make sure there aren’t mechanical issues inside.

Do you mind sharing what you know about the gun? Is there family history that gives it special meaning? Do you want to make it “right” or original?

Given the bluing of the frame, probably not worth the effort or expense. IMHO the gun has no collector value, with or without a correct replacement stock, but is only valued as a shooter. If everything is tight and proper, it may be a wonderful shooter. Depends on what you want.

Mikes right. That’s why I ask why you want to replace the stock. In its current state I wouldn’t do anything with it UNLESS there is some intrinsic value.

Family friend passed away and we always talked about how good it was for bird hunting. He wanted me to have it. I will enjoy as you have suggested.

To me, that background changes the metrics, at least if you plan to keep it and use it. You can certainly enjoy the gun, as is, and the memories. Or, go all in and make it right. You don’t have any $ invested in it now so spending a reasonable amount to have it restored wouldn’t be a waste and it might be a nice way to honor the fellow who gave it to you.

As it sits right now, in terms of market value, it’s not worth much. But the value to you is incalculable. We can’t put a value on that history, that something only you can do.