I grew up around Parkers but never owned one until 10 or so years ago. In the little town of Bridgton, Maine was a shop called the Sportsmans Exchange. Run by Bill Fitzcharles. It was a great store for a youngster interested in the outdoors. Guns, fishing equipment, traps, camping gear and anything else you could ever need. Also, one of those places where folks gathered and a youngster could learn alot if he kept quiet and just listened. Hunting lore, war stories, women (too young to have any understanding there at the time and have learned little else since). He was also a Parker collector. There was a glass case of them. All gauges if I remember correctly. Lots of old Winchester lever actions. 8 gauge single of some type hanging from the ceiling. Huge brown trout mounted to the wall. I almost bought a Model 1895 in 405 with my summer work money for $75. Purchased a 1903 sporterized Springfield in 30-338 instead. The word magnum was the selling point for a youngster with little knowledge. I wish I could remember all the Parkers that went through there. It was a great place to visit and all there were very eager to answer any questions and help the youngsters to bring them into the sport. Finally got my one Parker....A GH someone added a Monte Carlo comb to (it fits perfectly). Still searching for the next....would love a heavy framed 20 guage....love the look of those bank vault thick barrels and just shoot heavier guns better....
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