A-1 characteristics
 

How do you identify an a-1 grade repro other than someone saying it’s an a-1

Parker Reproductions were made available in three grades, DHE, BHE and A-1 Special. The one characteristic that is unique to the A-1 Special is that they characteristically will always have three beads behind each of the breech balls. The BHE will have just one bead and DHE do not have any. Not to be flippant, but all one has to do is look at 'em -- actually you could do it blindfolded.

Below is a pic of a Parker Reproduction A-1 Special with the 3 beads behind the breech balls pointed out:

Is his question asking how to tell the difference between factory original A1 Specials and the guns in the white turned into A1 S?

The "in the white" guns were very seldom engraved in the original Repro style.

Triple beaded fences, all parts are stamped with an “A” along with the serial number. Forend tip and the top lever will have the V shaped wedge filed in it. And the trigger will be gold.

Factory finished A1s were all engraved the same. Like the photo above. Custom grades done by Gournet for the company were all different and done to customer specifications and french gray finish.