Parker bros serial number question

[Skylarvincent]

Greetings,
I have an 1880 underlifter hammer gun, in 12g. The receiver is stamped with serial number 18287. However, the barrels and forend are stamped with serial numbers 18288. Given that they are only off by one number, im curious if this was something that happened during production as opposed to someone later piecing the gun together. Any insight is greatly appreciated!

[Dean Romig]

Tell us exactly where on the parts that you’re seeing these numbers. The order number, stamped on the barrel flat of the right barrel is often mistaken for the serial number. The serial number of the barrels will be found on the side of the locking lug.





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[Skylarvincent]

Thanks for the reply. I am indeed reading the number from the side of the locking lug, and the corresponding number on the receiver flat. I can attempt to upload pictures if it would help.

[edgarspencer]

I had a grade 3 lifter, with one hammer stamped xxx76, the other xxx67.
These guns were made by humans.

[Pa SxS]

I believe it was done at the factory. It's so easy to do..

[Dean Romig]

Originally Posted by Skylarvincent

Thanks for the reply. I am indeed reading the number from the side of the locking lug, and the corresponding number on the receiver flat. I can attempt to upload pictures if it would help.

Nope, I believe you and I believe your first premise is likely to be the answer to this dilemma… we’ve seen it before, albeit extremely rarely.





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[mobirdhunter]

It would still be interesting to see photos if possible.

[Skylarvincent]

Here’s a few, let me know what you think!

[edgarspencer]

According to the book, 18287, and 18288 were the same configuration, so it's entirely possible that the barrel and fore end got put on the wrong gun. The actual SN is that which is stamped on the receiver (as opposed to any other misc. part) so unless you were lucky enough to find 18288, you'll never know for certain. If you had my luck, you'd find 18288, and find it had barrels stamped 18289.

I just thought of another scenario. Both guns were ordered by the same hardware store, and got mixed up when they arrived.

[Skylarvincent]

Thanks for the info! I really appreciate everyones input!