[Bindlestiff]

OK, this looks like a good FAQ to add to our web page. Before I add it, I would like comments to make sure it is accurate. I am not a person that takes Parkers apart, so its up to you to keep me on track. Here is what I have so far, when it look correct I'll add it to FAQ:

How to get the proper index when working with Parker screw heads.


As you take apart a Parker shotgun, it is wise to remember the screw placement and one proven method to guarantee they go back where they came from is to use a stiff paper or wood block pattern, with holes arranged to mimic the screw arrangement for the right, left and bottom sides of the frame. Then as you remove any screw, place it in the paper or wood screw hole which corresponds to its original placement in the frame. Then, when you reassemble the frame, you will easily know where each screw belongs. Correct placement of the screws preserves proper screw slot alignment; which is always at right angles (either up & down or right & left).

If the screws are not aligned properly, the first thing to do is make sure they are in their proper locations. Typically, the screws on left side of the receiver are commonly marked with a "-" on its tip and nothing on the right. A "+" mark on any of them is usually an indication it is for the right side. The "left side" references the left side of the gun while looking at the bottom of the receiver with the barrels pointed away from you.

The floor plate screws can have different combination. Early guns have two short screws in the doll's head and one longer screw at the rear (partially covered by the forward bow of the trigger guard). For these, a "-" is usually seen on the left screw tip end. The other short screw (may be unmarked or it could also have a "+" marking) is the right side by default; the longer screw (also unmarked) obviously goes to the rear. Later guns often have three screws of equal length and on these the left is usually marked with a "-", the right has a "+", and the rear one is unmarked.

When installing these screws, insure the screw is in the proper location, and all the threads and channels are clean.

These are general guidelines, there could be other variations. If the above advice doesn't help, you can just experiment with different placement to see what gives you the best alignment.

Remember to always use the proper screwdrivers when working with any Parker screw to keep the screw head from being damaged.