Original Brass Shells

[Jay Oliver]

Hello Everyone,

I bought an 1880 lifter this past spring and it came with 18 Parker 12A Brass shells along with primers, powder and some reloading tools. My first question is age..how long did Parker/UMC make these shells? I was able to find a date online regarding the almost full primer tin and I found that they were first made in 1884(though I don’t know how old these might be). Overall I was just curious on how old all of this might be and if it could it be close to the age of the gun.

I cleaned 2 shells with the idea of shooting them just to do it, I wouldn’t use the powder in the picture, but that came with all of my “goodies” as well. Does anyone still shoot these original shells? Is there a good source for primers for these older shells? I had a hard time finding any others online.

I do think I’ll order some off the replica Parker Bros. 12A shells from Track of the Wolf as I have really enjoyed the 10ga. versions in my short ten.

Let me know if I should put this original stuff away and just be thankful I have it with the gun.

Thank you,

Jay