Is my Parker safe to shoot?

JamesCheatham · 02-07-2021, 10:23 PM

I am the owner of a Parker Bros 12 gauge, double barrel shotgun. The serial number is 201435 and is marked VH (Vulcan Steel). The insides of the barrels are clean and shiny. Both firing pins work.

The gun was purchased new by my grandfather who handed it down to my dad who handed it down to me. I used to hunt with it when I was a teenager (mid to late 60s) but I don’t think it has been fired since then.

How can I determine if this gun is safe to shoot?

Jim

todd allen · 02-07-2021, 11:40 PM

Best to have a competent gunsmith look it over. Barrel wall thickness is primary. Chances are it has another 100 years of life left in it.

Drew Hause · 02-08-2021, 07:44 AM

Any 100 year old shotgun deserves a check and clean by a double gun specialist, with the interest, equipment (bore scope and wall thickness gauge, and proper screwdrivers!), and expertise to properly do so.
Let us know your general location and we might be able to recommend someone near you.

JamesCheatham · 02-08-2021, 09:19 AM

Thanks guys.

Jay,
I’m in Central Virginia about 30 miles west of Richmond. Please let me know a qualified gunsmith in my area.

Thanks
Jim

Allen Peterson · 02-08-2021, 09:34 AM

Gunter Pfrommer in Rocky Mount.

Allen Peterson · 02-08-2021, 09:36 AM

Gunter Pfrommer in Rocky Mount

6pt-Sika · 02-08-2021, 09:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesCheatham

Thanks guys.

Jay,
I’m in Central Virginia about 30 miles west of Richmond. Please let me know a qualified gunsmith in my area.

Thanks
Jim

Purcell’s Custom Firearms , 102 South Madison Road , Orange VA 22960 . 540-661-3392