A family Parker

[Patrick Hanna]

Hi, Dean. You are correct. I hadn't noticed the number there. I have not cleaned it yet, but can actually see that number more clearly than the one on the water table. Both numbers match. I mis-read the serial number previously. I mistook "292" for "232"
in the first three digits. The correct number now places the gun in 1883. That, of course, works out better for the introduction of the grade. The lack of checkering and the rounded tip on the pistol grip had me confused. I've never seen a photo of a Parker with an un-checkered stock. That particular inlet has also been painted with the mystery finish. Should these inlet surfaces be finished or bare wood? Seems to me they should be unfinished or only very thinly finished.
Many thanks for the info.
Patrick

[edgarspencer]

I thought you intended to give this (or sell it to) some cousin who had an interest in it. Seems your taking it upon yourself to clean, restore, and make decisions the cousin should have wanted to make. Most guns on the edge of junk or new life have been pushed over the wrong side by well intentioned amateur restorers. Why not let the guy you said was going to get the gun determine it's fate?