XXL to L Parkers

[Milton C Starr]

Originally Posted by Bill Murphy

Maybe fifteen years ago or so, I bought a couple of cases of ten gauge 3 1/2" steel shells in #2 and #BB. I decided to hunt my waterfowl with my 10 gauge AYA exclusively, because I bought that ammunition for less than $5.00 a box of 25. I did a lot of walking in woods and marshy areas, not much sitting in blinds. I guess the price of the ammo made carrying the big gun easier. After a short time, the big ten started to feel like a 20 gauge. I carried that gun until back injuries and surgeries kept me out of the marshes. I sold the gun and my chest waders so I wouldn't be tempted to shoot any more ducks over marsh or water. Milton, my #6 frame ten has factory 3 1/2" chambers and enough metal in the barrels to handle any 3 1/2" shell made today, including steel.

In my opinion that is probably one of the coolest Parker 10 gauges . Theres a few factory options now for 10 gayge 3.5" loaded with bismuth . I know last year 10 gauge steel shot was as cheap as $0.80 a round . I don't mind the weight so much as I love the history of these big old waterfowling pieces and like to see them preserved and still fielded .