One of my worst nightmares come true

[6pt-Sika]

Glad you got'er back !

[J.B. Books]

Originally Posted by Robin Lewis

Many years ago when I was in the Navy, we could send and receive classified documents using registered mail. It may have been more secure back then but it still seems secure when I use it today. There are many hoops to jump through when using it. The one that is a pain for me, is finding "paper" tape to cover every (all) seams in the package. They require a paper tape so they can stamp it liberally making it obvious if it is tampered with (opened). That paper tape is almost impossible for me to locate but I understand why the require it.

Years ago, a fine gunsmith advised me to always use registered mail. I have used it many times and never had a problem. Its not the cheapest way to ship but it may be the most secure.

Robin, USPS Registered mail is not bulletproof either. Last year I sent out my NH 10ga barrels to Brad Bachelder for refinishing. I shipped it USPS registered and payed to have it returned the same way. I noted on the way out there was no scanning to show the package's progress on the trip. When BB was done they called to tell me my barrels were shipped, USPS registered, insured and gave the tracking number. My barrels went overdue in arriving. I became a very squeeky wheel with the Postmaster where they were shipped from. Several days went by with no success. It was then I started to hear how sometimes Registered mail does get lost, no gaurantees etc. Finally the barrels were located, allegedly sitting in a safe in a Chicago mailing facility. When they found them they said all set you'll have them in a week. I was already 15 days from shipping which allows for an insurance claim to be filed. I politely complained some more and asked them to make up for the inconvenience I had to deal with and asked they be overnighted from Chicago. They were on my doorstep the next day.

[Dennis]

Congratulations, John on recovering your Parker. I am glad it worked out for you.
Dennis

[Sam Ogle]

Wonderful news.
Sam Ogle

[Twice Shooter]

Robin,

Contact ULINE at 800-295-5510. I believe the tape you want is Model number S-909. Ask for their catalog. They have most anything anybody would ever want for shipping. Cheers, Tom

[Ed Blake]

I'll bet a lot of stuff walks out of the PO in the form of hazardous waste. Nobody notices the trash being taken out.

[Double Lab]

John,
Whew! I'm so very happy you got your gun back. I know the feeling you got in your stomach because I experienced the same feeling when my 32"DHE 20 was stolen. I have'nt shipped a gun in years because I've found a great guy in PA. where I can drive my gun up to drop it off and then go pick it up when done. But maybe this is a good learning experience for those who ship guns. USPS, registered/receipt, insured. This seems to be the best way? Maybe we have in our membership someone who works for the USPS and can give advice. Years ago when I used Delgrago he said to only use USPS. As much as I hate the govt., this does seem to be the best way to ship.

[John Truitt]

Daryl,
This was a hell of a learning experience. Not only about shipping and the USPS but how thick the many layers are of just one small part of our govt is.
Robin Lewis asked that I write up a parker pages article on the whole thing and I think I will.
I will do so once things settle down for me with starting my own practice.
I have decided to go it on my own.

[Double Lab]

John,
Good luck with your own practice. Working for yourself is really an eye opener. You'll really see how Uncle Sam screws us but you'll have the best boss in the world. Get as many cash patients as you can. You'll see what I mean.
Daryl

[Craig Parker]

John, good news to hear. I think by following up was the key, as i'm afraid that not letting them know you are serious let's to much time pass.Craig