Quote:
Originally Posted by Dean Romig
That sixteen is a pretty nice looking gun, despite the modifications and the twelve, for what it is (rode hard and put away wet... more than once) isn't bad either... for what it is.
|
Thanks for the welcome! I was a little embarrassed to even post photos of my Parkers but hey, I love 'em for my own reasons.
I appreciate the honesty that old 12 gauge exudes. Someone bought that gun as a tool and I've no doubt it has served mightily over the years. Considering the shape it was in when acquired, I wouldn't be a bit surprised to find it was a one-owner gun. I believe it takes decades in stasis for any lubricant I'm familiar with to turn into something approaching amber in viscosity. Amber. That's what I kept thinking of as I was trying to get the extractor to let go. It's easy for me to imagine the original owner falling ill and ending up in a nursing home for many years while the old Parker sat hidden in a closet or attic, slowly decaying. When the owner finally died, I can see some n'er'do well relative finding the old gun and moving it swiftly along through one or more brokers until I found and brought it home at what was a garage sale price, in my opinion. I'm already forming the thought that DelGrego may end up having this one for awhile, if for no other reason that the gun has most likely earned it. It didn't leave Meriden dressed in a fine suit of clothes but instead, dressed more as a common worker or infantryman. It's current condition is indicative of a gun that's seen many, many days afield in all weather conditions and for some reason, that really speaks to me.
The 16 gauge is a little different story. I think it's had a much easier life but has obviously suffered at the hand of many different owners. There's no doubt in my mind that this one is heading to Illion, NY after this year's hunting season, but there will be little attempt made to restore it to original. I think getting the case colors back on the old girl, along with an equalizing of color and refinish on the stocks, will suit me just fine. That little sixteen is "The One" as far as I'm concerned.