Rib hight on VH 20's

[Chris T.]

Bill, I really like guns with the odd features like safety delete and flat ribs. I think your right about the safety, the top tang is round on top like it would be with out a safety. I would like to hear your thoughts about it when it comes in. If only it were 32"!!

[Bill Murphy]

Chris, when you posted the link, I had already pulled the plug. Yes, 32" would be a nice addition to that gun, but I'm sure it's a safety delete and ordered by someone whose name I will recognize. It will be a very nice addition to my pigeon gun collection. Unfortunately, there is a little work to be done, like filling in the safety slot, reengraving, finding DHE grade forend wood, and installing a nice Hawkins pad on the butt. I just can't resist an orphan gun that has been messed with. I have a room full of them. I am still amazed that you found that gun to post on the "flat rib" thread. Thanks, Chris.

[Chris T.]

Wait, collection?? We need to get together and compare notes.

[Bill Murphy]

A fully optioned "Parker Pigeon Gun" would be long barrels, safety delete, flat rib, no extension rib. DuBray ordered pigeon guns often included all but the flat rib. I haven't seen a gun with more than three of the four features, but I'm sure they are out there.

[Bill Murphy]

I picked up the DHE pigeon gun yesterday. As I had predicted, it is a "safety delete" with a safety installed aftermarket and a small "S" stamped ahead of the non Parker replacement safety slide. Returning the gun to "no safety" status will be a pretty simple job for an engraver. As you can tell by the gunsinternational ad, it is a flat rib gun with ball grip. I will run the bore gauge through it later. OK, here it is. The bores are a very uniform .740 with .042 choke in both barrels. The bores are probably cleaned up a bit to get that fat, but the PGCA letter may lay the blame on Parker Brothers. They should shoot just fine with 42 thousandths of choke. I can't wait to get this old soldier out to the range, or maybe the pigeon ring.