Which would you choose?
 

Greetings All,
I'm at a crossroads and want to solicit some input from those more familiar with nuances of the Parker Reproductions. I'm interested in three guns or sets, but will buy only one. All have single triggers. Not hung up on the chokes. I'm sure I'm forgetting some pertinent information, but isn't that always the case? I appreciate any assistance you can provide, including financial! :) They are as follows;

1. 20 gauge BHE with straight grip, splinter forearm, 26" barrels, and Parker case. Like new, $10K

2. 20 gauge A1 Special with pistol grip, beavertail forearm, 26" barrels choked Q1 & Q2, 28" barrels choked mod & full and Parker 2 barrel case. Receiver has tasteful 100% coverage custom relief engraving without game scenes. Has minimal wear, $15K

3. 28 & 410 DHE combo with pistol grip, not sure about the forearm(s), 26" barrels, and 2 barrel Parker case. Like new, $18K

I am a tiny bore man, so I would be biased, but always pick the gun with charisma, and they are hard to find and not always in perfect condition. I have managed to acquire about a dozen guns that fall into that category in 65yrs of collecting and they don't leave here, period. Good Luck, Tom

I will offer that a 28 gauge Parker Reproduction is a dream to shoot. One that has a set of .410 barrels would be an easy decision for me.

What is the reason for buying? Investment, hunting, or target shooting? They made few B grade guns and that's a fair price if nice wood and no flaws. The 410/28 would be my pic for multiple reasons. Sent you a PM....SXS ohio

Well, I'm off to a good start! Looks like the 28/410 is in the lead, but Tom, can you elaborate on your charisma statement? Based on looks, the 20 gauge A1 Special is the clear winner, in my opinion. But I am leaning toward smaller gauges and the 28/410 are appealing from that standpoint. Who wouldn't love having a .410? Kenny, I'm buying to enjoy owning and shoot some. Not looking to make money, but don't want to lose any either. And why did all of you pick the most expensive option?!!!

Dennis, The answer lies in the question. "And why did all of you pick the most expensive option?" My answer is I don't see how you can make a "wrong" decision. Buy one, shoot it, love it.

You can buy a 28 / 28 two barrel set for $7000, seems like $11,000 is a lot of dough for a 410 barrel. I have really nice 410 side by sides that don’t cost 11k.
Just my thoughts on the 28/410. I would get the BHE
-Brett

There are a lot of reproductions for sale. Why have you narrowed it down to these 3? A 26” barrel isn’t appealing to a lot of buyers so BHE is out. The 28/410 set is expensive and also has 26” barrels so it is out. The 20 gauge A1 special doesn’t sound like it is factory engraved. It would need to be evaluated, price wise, based on the engraving and the engraver. Keep looking.

Ken

Thanks to all, especially BS/Brett, for your input. Brett put things into perspective for me with the statement about the true cost of a .410 barrel. I know they're rare, but not sure I need/want one that much. Plus, in the interest of delayed full transparency, I already own the BHE which translates to I used the money I saved to purchase a Purdey hammer gun in an oak and leather case today. Woe is me!