GH value help

[Bill Bates]

I'm not looking to sell but thinking of buying what would be my second Parker.

The shotgun in question is a GH 12 gauge 1 1/2 frame It is in good mechanical condition and decent cosmetic condition. Screws show no sign any one been in the gun that didn't know what they were doing. The wood has original finish with no major chips, scratches or cracks. There is a little oil soak at the head but it isn't soft. There are some faded case colors.

The 28" barrels are Damascus with very good bores, 2 1/2" chambers and is supposed to be modified and full choke. Barrels have not been cut. They are on face, the action is tight as tic and the lever is just right of center.

Now the bad, there is some rust but no major pitting. The pistol grip stock is a wee bit on the short side and more drop than is normal these days. The stock hasn't been cut and still wears the original but plate.

The serial number is in the 2073xx range so build date is 1924.

So it has good wood with good finish; is mechanically excellent; it is un-fiddle with and the metal finish has seen some rust but not major wear.

I know it is tough to give a value without gun in hand but what is a reasonable ball park price to pay?

I took a few quick photos of the worst.

[Dean Romig]

Certainly one of the very latest Damascus GH guns I've heard of. The only thing that would concern me is the wood at the frame. Can't tell if that's just accumulated crud or something worse.

I'm going to say about $2400 - $2800

[Bill Bates]

There is some crud build up and a signs of oil soaking into the wood but the photo and how the flash caught some of the crud makes it look worse than what it looks to the eye. The wood doesn't feel soft so I'm not too worried but it was one of my concerns.

[Setter Man]

I am no expert on pricing (but I hope Dean's range is a little low) but that's a beautiful gun. The case colors, the damascus finish - very nice.

[Autumn Daze]

All things being as you noted. I would go with Deans assesment of $2800.00

[Bill Bates]

I feel better. The asking price was $2500 and I thought it felt right but you all with more experience eased my mind some. Noticed I said "was". The deal is done. Thanks for your input.

Now about the rust spots here and there. I figure some elbow grease with some 0000 steel wool is in order. I don't want to damage the finish or metal under the rust...is there a better way?

[Dean Romig]

Yes, there is a better product than steel wool. I'll get back to you with the name and contact info later - I have it all at home.