Winchester 21 or Parker DH?

[Jäger]

I am torn about which one to purchase, roughly the same price, both in 12. I have a Parker vhe 20, so this could add to a growing collection, plus I own a setter, and I've always wanted a setter engraved gun, so that's a plus. Please help me decide gentlemen!

[Dean Romig]

Seriously?

You're asking a bunch of Parker fanatics that question?

I offer a resounding PARKER!!

[Jäger]

Originally Posted by Dean Romig

Seriously?

You're asking a bunch of Parker fanatics that question?

I offer a resounding PARKER!!

I know seriously! I love Parkers too! So your telling me you've never been tempt d by 21s...

[King Brown]

I wouldn't accept a Model 21 if it were offered to me for free. I have too many guns now. It's a well-made, strong gun but nothing---neither its appearance or provenance as a classic--- distinguishes it as the gun for me. The Parker beats it hands-down.

[TxHuntermn]

Michael, i am a fairly new sxs collector, but a long time sxs shooter and hunter. This may sound nuts, but in the last six or seven years, i have purchsed 20 or 25 doubles, and sold about five of the ones I have bought. Among those were two 21's, a 28" 16 and a 30" straight stock 12. I cannot put my finger on it, but.......neither of those shotguns felt, handled, balanced or shot as well as the Bakers, Elsies, Lefefevers Fox's or definitely not the Parkers I have had in my hands. And the prices a collectable, shootable 21 demands are in my opinion out of kilter (thankfully) with most of the rest of the classic american sxs choices.

Just my personal opiniom for what it is worth. A DH Parker is a work of art!,,

[Jäger]

This will be in the rotation for upland hunting fyi. I'm leaning towards the Parker, just wanted to hear what you fine collectors had to say. I'm a fine bolt gun guy so just soliciting opinions!

[Jäger]

Originally Posted by Mark Ray

Michael, i am a fairly new sxs collector, but a long time sxs shooter and hunter. This may sound nuts, but in the last six or seven years, i have purchsed 20 or 25 doubles, and sold about five of the ones I have bought. Among those were two 21's, a 28" 16 and a 30" straight stock 12. I cannot put my finger on it, but.......neither of those shotguns felt, handled, balanced or shot as well as the Bakers, Elsies, Lefefevers Fox's or definitely not the Parkers I have had in my hands. And the prices a collectable, shootable 21 demands are in my opinion out of kilter (thankfully) with most of the rest of the classic american sxs choices.

Just my personal opiniom for what it is worth. A DH Parker is a work of art!,,

Ok thank you! Good to know!

[Phil C]

Originally Posted by King Brown

I wouldn't accept a Model 21 if it were offered to me for free. I have too many guns now. It's a well-made, strong gun but nothing---neither its appearance or provenance as a classic--- distinguishes it as the gun for me. The Parker beats it hands-down.

Here is one that might tempt you it did me. I love my Parker's but I find the appearance pleasing, and handles quit nice. It's a 20 gauge Grade 6 with 28" barrels. Started life as a field grade in 1941 sent back to the factory in 1945 for upgrade. George Ulrich engraved. I think most of us have found a little space for some non Parker SXS. My suggestion is handle both guns, and shoot them if you can. Buy the gun you will use.

[TxHuntermn]

Phil, that is good advice. But, as I said....just my opinion. BTW, an ultra custom gun like yours would probably turn my head also! I have a feeling though that you could buy a pretty snazzy BH or CH for the same money.

At the end of the day, its the gun that feels the best, and that you SHOOT the best, that is the right choice.

I do know this, i financed about 6 acquisitions of graded guns with the sale of thise two 21's.

[Mike Franzen]

Model 21 is a fine gun but a DH Parker is something very special. Parker gun works built nothing but shotguns and they have acquired a mystique unmatched by any other American maker. Either buy them both or choose the Parker.