Don: I have SN 92373 an 1899 CH 12 gauge that was originally shipped with 32 inch Bernard Steel barrels but went back to Parker in 1904 for a set of 32 inch Titanic Steel barrels. How early were they fitting Titanic Steel barrels? I have both sets of barrels for mine although the Bernard set were cut to 28 inches. My gun also has a straight handed stock and is on a No. 2 frame. My Parker letter states that it was ordered by W. Frank Irwin of Cherokee Iowa on July 28, 1899 & shipped to him on September 13, 1899 according to Order Book #47. It was returned to Parker on April 16, 1901 to "take dents out of barrels, clean & rebrown, blue all iron parts, nickel triggers, make RH trigger pull 4 pounds and tighten action NO CHARGE" according to Order Book #53.
The order also states: "Make guard same as grade 5 or 6" and "He is to use gun and talk Parker for three years and it is his gun".
It was returned again by W. Frank Irwin c/o Sportsman St. Louis, MO on January 16, 1904 to fit "12 gauge 32 inch Titanic Steel barrels to shoot 10" high, retarget and clean out old barrels, and set trigger pull at RH 3 1/2 pounds and LH 4 pounds" AGAIN THERE WAS NO CHARGE! According to Order Book #63. MY QUESTION IS:
Do you or does anyone here know anything about W. Frank Irwin? He must have been a favourite around Parker Brothers in that it looks like he was given a free gun and free upgrades & repairs. Any information would be appreciated.
Best Regards, George
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