New Member In Virginia

[BrianLiszkay]

I was clearing some brush for a friend in Warrenton, Virginia. I was picking up metal posts and throwing them in a pile and this one didn't feel like the other ones. Sure enough it was shock and awe that it was not a fence post. A neighbor that was there actually had a parker in good condition. He brought it out and was able to identify this one as a parker. We took side by side comparisons. He is probably on this forum but I am not going to post his parker because I did not ask permission. The owner was happy to let me keep this relic because of how cool it would be. So here I am. I am still trying to get my hands on a friends metal detector. Maybe just maybe I can find a few more pieces but I highly doubt it. Warrenton is an old town and there is history around in every direction. The are farms, land, old family houses all around this area. I too wish I could find more information or be able to answer everyone's questions. We wonder if it was leaning up against a tree, filled with water, and burst the barrels. Who knows what that would do with the interior mechanisms'. That could explain also for not being able to get it open.

I also do believe it is a 16 gauge. On Friday I wrapped it in a cloth and put it gently in a vise and gave it a few healthy hits with a rubber mallet. It does not even budge. I would love to know the next best thing to do to get it open. Penetrating oil? What kind. Heat? I do not want to damage it. sxs gunsmith? Recommendations welcome even if I have to ship it somewhere. For me right now it is best to leave it alone until I find the correct course of action. Thank you again for everyone's comments and feedback.

I am in Gainesville Virginia if anyone is in the area and want's to look at it. I do wish to keep it as it is cool as sh*t and will never happen to me again.