Future of Parker Collection and Double Gun Collecting

[Kensal Rise]

To borrow a phrase from Robert Ruark, "Something of Value" begins with one's perception of value.

In our case, that value only partially resides in the gun itself. Sure, Parkers and other fine double guns have intrinsic value. They are not only tools of sport, but works of art.

But to find true value in the double gun, it must encompass intangible things. Like a crisp, clear Autumn morning. The excitment of youth. The anticipation of the flush. A great dog and companion. And... in great measure, a reverence for the tradition of hunting and shooting along with a respect for the game involved.

Sadly, today's youth have little of that. They see guns as they see computers. As machines. And the context they are used in is combat. Virtual or otherwise. Thus, black guns and pistols with plastic stocks are the norm. Double guns with engraving and figured wood stocks are not.

The traditions of America also also gone. Nothing is revered. Nothing is romantic. The measure of success in anything is quantity. Like piled up doves... or a top score in Call of Duty.

It all adds up to a cultural shift. The cost issue is only part of that. I priced a new Ruger 762 the other day. They're $1800 worth of plastic, paint and sloppy fit. No thank you.

Still, I would love to get more young people involved in doubles. And I think the PGCA has made a good start with its youth efforts. They should be expanded.

But age does not always bring sophistication in taste. Or wealth.

Enjoy your doubles whilst ye may...

[John Truitt]

Well said Mr Campbell!!

The answer to the original question posed is multifactorial.
One facet is exposure to the guns/ culture/ etc.
I would imagine most here have memories / fond memories of dad or grand dad and other companions who hunted/ carried/ shot side by sides. Each year and each generation we are getting future away from that exposure. The distance created is by cultural changes/ technology advances in shotguns/ etc.
So it would be concluded that a young person today who has no exposure to a Parker, or other side by side/ vintage gun, would seek out that treasure/ or object of value in the future. They have no or very little tie to such a thing.

IMO that is why the PGCA/LCSCA/ FCA/ etc are so important. These organizations will be the tools to provide the exposure to the public/ interested parties. Events like the Southern side by side and Vintage Cup/ Pheasant fest/ Orvis Cup etc are serving the same purpose.

I think with the continued existence of the PGCA and other organizations like it the future of double guns is bright and full of possibilities.

[Researcher]

Collectors normally don't get interested in shotguns costing thousands of dollars until the get to the age where they can pay for them.

Come on Bill!! Doesn't everyone start in their teens like we did? I mowed a lot of lawns and still had to borrow $40 from my Father for that Super-Fox.