Another question about my Trojan
 

When I pulled the buttplate I saw the end of a dowel, 1/2" or so. Is this typical, or has someone added weight, etc? I suppose I'll never know unless I drill it out? Thanks...

The Parker Story ( TPS) has an explanation of the strengthening rod or dowel. May I suggest that you not drill it out.

Thanks Bruce; I wouldn't have anyway. Just wondered about it.

Phil, This is very interesting. I have never heard of a Trojan grade gun with the strengthening rod. Is there a patent date stamped near the pistol grip?

Dave, where would I find such a date? I have not pulled the stock; only the butt plate.

The date stamp Dave is referring to would be on the underside of the stock immediately behind the flat of the pistol grip. It is a rarely seen stamp even on Parkers known to have the hickory reinforcing rod. Some were likely removed in the course of refinishing a stock but some that have never been refinished do not display the stamp.

The dowel could also be a plug to fill in a screw hole of a previously installed butt plate.

Not unless the plate was held on with one great big screw smack dab in the middle :)! The stock has most certainly been refinished; I will look closer tonight but I'm pretty sure there is no evidence of a date stamp anywhere.

Nope; no dates to be found.

Phil, Is it possible to post a picture of the butt end of the stock so that we can see the plug?