Early Parker questions
 

I recently came across a Parker 10 gauge at an estate sale. It is an early model produced in 1876. The stock appears to have shims inserted (leather?) between the buttplate and the wood. What are you thoughts on this? Maybe someone added them to lengthen the stock or help with recoil? I am wondering if I remove them will the buttplate still match up to the wood. Please see images and let me know your thoughts.

Yeah, the leather was of course added. For one reason or another.

The butt plate looks like it has its original contours as does the stock with the recess for the spur on the butt plate. I would remove the leather spacers.






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If your going to shoot the gun, is the LOP correct for you as it is? If so, leave it and shoot it.

Thanks for the feedback. I was concerned that the stock or buttplate was modified. Might go ahead and go for it if the price is right. Would $400 be a good guess on the value?

We don't know near enough to appraise that gun.

Early Parker questions
 

A few more images. Any guidance you can give me on the grade or value would be appreciated. Serial number is 8354.

Looks like a grade-0. Sharper pictures might confirm this.





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If it is $400, just buy it.

Have you looked at the bores? If they are not to pitted up I wouldn't hesitate at $400.