My Parker questions

[Kirk Pfeffer]

Hi all,
I would like to show you my Parker and get some advice from you. It's a 12 Ga. VH manufactured in 1907. This is a gun that I inherited from my Father and I know it belonged to my Grandfather and I believe my Great Grandfather. One of the last things my Father said to me was that no matter what I wasn't to sell any of his guns. While they are all special to me, this has always been one of my favorites. I think that the last time I shot it was 10 or more years ago and then put it in storage.

As can be seen from the pictures, this gun has seen a LOT of use. The forend almost looks like it's been worn down. This may not be possible but it's worn enough that all the checkering is gone. The stock has some issues with what I think is a significant crack. I'm not sure if this is something that can be fixed or not. I guess my goal is to be able to use this gun again. My impression is that since it's a VH and in the shape that it is, working on it won't hurt the value (unless I really screw it up) which I don't intend to let happen. My thought would be to replace the stock and forend and maybe refinish the barrel but leave the receiver alone.

There's a lot of expertise on this forum so I look forward to your input.
Thanks,
Kirk