Some Questions on Our Family's Parker

[Dean Thomas]

This is a gun that came down to me in the family. My Mom believes that this was my Great Great Grandfather's and that he used it for hunting late in his life (he died 1917). He in turn passed it on to his grandson, my Mom's father, or my Grandfather. I never had a chance to discuss it with him before he passed on, back in the late eighties. It is in good condition and all still original and has never been re-finished.

I have done alot of reading on the Parker Gun's website and have come to learn alot more about it. The serial number 104971 indicates that it was manufactured in 1901...so this goes along with my Mom's belief.

12 ga
SN: 104971
Frame size 2
Barrel weight: 44
Vulcan steel
Grade V

Some things I am still fuzzy about...

1. The website table lists barrel type or grade as "VH" for Vulcan, yet my gun is only stamped "V". I had seen someone comment in the forum that they had a "VH" stamp on thier gun's watertable...is this something that changed over time of manufacture?

2. I assume this has an Extractor versus an Ejector based on your description.

3. What is meant by "Case Colors"? This gun is all original (metal and wood).

4. Though this is a family heirloom and is not going any where, I do wonder about it's value. From what I have learned I would guess in the ballpark of $800 but please do correct me if I am off target.

5. Any reason it would not be safe to shoot?

I have taken several photos that I hope will help with answering my questions...most all are close ups thinking this would be best. If there is anything else you would like to see I can take a photo of it and post. If there is anything else I should inspect and/or describe I would be glad to.

Thanks in advance for your help.
Dean