20 ga. Parker Trojan - New member

robert farrell · 07-12-2015, 03:04 PM

I have inherited a Parker Trojan 20 ga. sxs. According to the serial number - 159536- it was made in 1912. It has been up in the attic for who knows how many years. By the looks of it, it has been used. Just asking around, some gunners say it's not worth much and some say it has some value. I was wondering if it could be restored cost effectively and what the value of this gun really is. I haven't done anything to it other than wipe it off and put in a new case. It was in a gun case that deteriorated when I tried to unpack it. Any response would be appreciated. I reside in southwest Florida. Thanks.

Bob Farrell

William Davis · 07-12-2015, 04:41 PM

Beware the "gunners" who say it's not worth much. Value is what someone will pay and a nice small bore Parker of any kind is a gun that will sell.

I have one that's well worn, finish only, mechanicals are fine. Paid 1850 for it. Put bookends on value friend of mine just bought a real nice one for 2700. The two guns bought from dealers who sell a fair amount of SxS's. His at 2700 was a better buy than mine at 1850. Both guns unaltered and not damaged in any way just used to different degrees.

Others may disagree but my advice is better to buy a nicer example than pay for restoration with a Trojan. Spread on his gun and mine, about 1000 dollars. Cost much more than that to bring mine up to his guns standard and even if it was restored would still be a re-finished gun.

William

Opening Day · 07-12-2015, 05:24 PM

Bill is correct do not refinish (or restore) it as you won't get your money out of it, it will be a refinished Parker, clean and oil yours up, if you can post some pictures here hard to even tell you what to or not to do to the gun.

And again beware of those "gunners" they smell a quick buck at your expense

Any small bore Parker with decent bores and tight on action is worth more then they are implying. Stay away from guys like that.

robert farrell · 07-12-2015, 06:13 PM

Thanks for the replies. It helps a lot.

Bob

B. Dudley · 07-12-2015, 06:43 PM

20g Trojans are hard to touch for under $1,000 unless they are really roached.
If it does not NEED and restoration of refurbishment, then don't do it. Unless you want to, then it would cost more than the gun is realistically worth given the grade of the gun.

Mills · 07-12-2015, 08:52 PM

I would hold onto the case. It may be more salvageable than you think and might add interest to a buyer. Be aware you need to join PGCA in order to sell on here. 20 gauge Trojans are great guns and I have two

Mike Franzen · 07-13-2015, 10:30 AM

Bob if you can post some pics of the gun you will get a much better appraisal of what you have. Include a pic or 2 of the case as well. Congratulations on inheriting a fine gun

Harry Collins · 07-13-2015, 03:13 PM

This is a picture of the 20 gauge Trojan my father found under the Christmas Tree. It has seen almost ninety years of use and it shows. I will never restore it as Papa's hands wore it shiny and checker less.

Jon Sheets · 08-21-2015, 07:44 PM

To restore or not to restore? Interesting question. Perhaps it depends on what you are willing to invest and what the value to you the gun has. If the gun cost you nothing initially, then a restoration might be worth the price. Assuming it's less than good, it would certainly give new life, and another 100 years of fine service, to an already utilitarian gun. If the idea is to use it then flip it, then leave it as is.

I beg to differ about the availability of modestly priced Trojans though. They can be found if you know where to look, and always keep an eye out. If you only look where everyone else is looking, expect to pay more.