Inherit a 1885 Parker gun - What should I do?

[mikka olsson]

I have inherit a 1885 Parker from my wife's grandfather. With the help of this site I found out the following:
-Grade 1
-Barrel weight is 6 lbs
-10 gauge
-Laminated barrel
-Has ejector

Before I do anything to it I would appreciate some advice. I do not know much about guns and very little about how to care for them. If it is not worth much I may want to clean/restore it and keep it, but if it has enough value I may chose to sell it.

Any help with understanding what I have and what it is potentially worth would very much be appreciated.

I have uploaded 25 pictures of the gun here:
http://gallery.me.com/mikkaolsson#100036

In advance I appreciate your help,

Mikka

[John D.]

Mikka....

I can't assist much with any answers - BUT......

Even before your first post, you supported this fine organization by becoming a Member...!!! Amazing... In fact, I think I was clearing your on-line Membership while you were in the midst of posting your question above??

Mikka - thank you and WELCOME!!!



John

[Bill Murphy]

Your gun is a very nice Grade 1, Laminated Steel, top lever hammer gun in unmolested condition. If the bores are clean and there is no other hidden damage, your gun will be of interest to those who wish to shoot or collect heavy barrel ten gauge Parkers. Six pound barrels are nice shooting guns. A mark on the bottom of the rear barrel lug will tell you what the frame size is. A "3" would be common, a "4" would be scarce in this grade of gun. Let us know what you have and when you plan to sell it. Some sellers actually add pictures of the bores on the guns they have for sale. By the way, the "ejector" you describe is actually what is called an "extractor". The ejector came later and is spring loaded to throw the shells clear of the gun. As a member, you are allowed to actually sell this gun on this site. A gun of this age does not normally need any special proof of eligibility to purchase, so you can send it to anyone who meets your approval as a responsible adult.

[mikka olsson]

Bill, Thanks for your post. I attached a picture of the rear barrel showing a number 3. Is that what you are referring to? Also I will get some pictures of the bores.

[Bill Murphy]

I snooped on your Vietnam tour and enjoyed it. Can you go on one of the other sub forums and tell us about it and maybe post a link?

[mikka olsson]

Does anyone know of someone that can help with the appraisal of my Parker in northern california? I am located in Redding,CA. 2 hours north of Sacramento.

[mikka olsson]

I promised to upload a picture of the bore. Here it is. Any thoughts on the value of this gun would be appreciated.