FAQ - How about a check list to buy a Parker

[Bindlestiff]

OK, another thread has a reply pointing out some things to look at when considering the purchase of a Parker. Now I'm thinking a FAQ on what to look for when thinking of buying a Parker might be a good addition?

I expect it would need to be an ordered list starting with buying a good, solid shooter, then extend into points appropriate for a collector gun and finally into the realm for a pristine, top end collector gun. Maybe even starting off with points that would cause one to keep walking and not purchase a particular Parker.

What do you think? If you want to help, post your check-off points that you look for when evaluating a Parker.

I think if we can order the list well, we may be able to avoid the subjective "price" issue and leave that up to the individual that holds the money?

For instance:

Pass on this one if - (to costly to repair)

• heavy pitting in the barrels
• the barrels are bulged

Could be a shooter if - (some repair needed)

• barrels have light pitting
• barrels are cut but sound
• stock is cracked but completely intact
• barrels slightly off face

A good shooter if - (nice, ready to hunt or shoot)

• barrels ring
• barrels are clean and chokes are what you want
• wood is solid with minimal oil staining
• dimensions fit you

Could be a shooter with some collector value if - (gun in excellent condition)

• solid condition overall
• repaired or restored by a quality Parker professional smith
• Some case color

Too nice to hunt with if -
A Parker with good collector value if -

Jent posted in another thread:

Is the wood in good condition ??? Are the ribs tight ??? Are the triggers good ??? Are the bores original ?? How about the chokes ??? Are the barrels still straight ??? NO, I am not kidding, I have found Parkers with bent tubes ! Can you test fire this Parker BEFORE you buy it ??? Can you shoot it at a patterning board ??? Do both barrels still shoot together at 16 to 18 yards ???

I would like to gather more of these types of points and get some help placing them in a ordered list. This will help the person with a new case of Parker fever as well as some of the very experienced, I'm sure we all have more to learn.