*** 1878 12 Bore Lifter ***

[Ray Walker]

This is a new to me 0 Grade lifter . No. 2 frame with 30” Damascus marked barrels that ring true .Nice shiny bores with just a couple small pits . On face and very solid overall. Wood fits tight and is free of cracks . Checkering is excellent and well defined. Serial #13076.
Picked her up at a local shop it had just come in with a bevy of other guns from a WW 1 veterans estate . It was covered with dust and some mold. It honestly looked bad but the bore looked clean . I took a chance and picked it up for $350 out the door. I spent a couple hours cleaning it up carefully as to not harm any of the underlying finish that had patina. I think it cleaned very nicely and I am thrilled with the purchase. This is my first lifter and I do plan on shooting it .

I have a couple other later Hammerless Parker’s so this is not my first Parker. I am however not familiar with the Lifter models. I’m am curious as to the value in the current market ?

Also since I plan on shooting it any advice on do and donuts or care for the lifter model would be greatly appreciated.

[Dean Romig]

Very nice Lifter!!
Is the forend iron numbered the same as the gun?
I ask because the bowtie checkering pattern is that of a Grade-2.





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[Ray Walker]

Dean, the forearm is numbered to the gun . Maybe I’m off on the grading ? I apologize as I am not knowledgeable in grading.

[Ray Walker]

Some more pics. Barrel is serial numbered also 13076.

[Ray Walker]

Forearm

[Bill Murphy]

Your gun is a higher grade than a zero (0). It is probably a 2, maybe a 1.

[Ray Walker]

Thanks Bill, is there a definitive way to determine the grade ?

[edgarspencer]

I think Bill is correct that it is not a Grade 0. The wrist and fore end would suggest grade two, but I'd expect a bit more engraving on a grade 2. The letter "U" on the water table has confused me in the past, as it was used to signify a Grade 0 with Twist barrels and a straight stock. In this case, I don't think the U is being used to signify grade, It's shown up in in other guns. Kinda like Waldo. The Damascus barrels are really whats got me leaning towards a 2.
Buy a letter and give Chuck the final word.

[Ray Walker]

I intend to get it lettered. Thanks for the input. Much appreciated.

[Mills]

It looks like a Grade 2 to me too.