Research Letters
 

What can one learn from research letters on the early hammer Parkers? I have a chance to buy what appears to be a very early hammer gun in unfired condition, barring poor pictures and the unwillingness to give a serial number. The guy says he's paranoid about tossing around serial numbers as someone will claim the gun is their gun. It all makes me a bit jumpy but the gun is outstanding from what I can see. Been to this horse and pony show before however and I'm going to press him for a serial number. It's a lifter gun, 32", 10 gaue. That's about all I can get for now, thanks for any light that might be shed on the research information. Jerry

Jerry: I would recommend caution when not being given the SN. I can understand someone not willing to advertise the SN, although I do and have never had a problem, but when dealing with a direct buyer I see no reason not to. If the seller is too far away for you to see it in person perhaps there is someone here who is close by. A lot too depends on the asking price. Much can be learned from a research letter if one is available for the gun in question: Grade, original barrel length, type of stock, etc.

Best Regards, George

My thoughts exactly! I've always given a full serial # when selling a gun. If it is indeed stolen, I don't want the gun in my possession anyway. Jerry

You can also find out the name of the original purchaser with a PGCA letter.

Thanks Bill, working on the serial number now. Much appreciated, Jerry

If I am going to pay for a gun, then I want the S#. If the guy is just talking about it then I don't care. Is that a fish I smell? My socks?

I'd suggest care; but you know that already.

You betcha! It's not cheap but if it's what it appears to be I'm all in but with caution, Jerry

Jerry: If a deal sounds too good to be true it often is. Caveat Emptor!

Best Regards, George

Jerry, have you personally examined the gun?

"Unfired" guns need to be examined by experts for authenticity and condition.

Good luck but be careful...