Parker Reproduction Review

[Rud Blumentritt]

I wanted to share this review I found and see if anyone had similar experiences with Repros or if this guys experience is the exception. I am in the market for a Repro and came across this article. Has me concerned. Thanks.

http://shotgunreport.com/2013/09/13/...reproductions/

[Big Friend Ten (BFT)]

Bruce Buck wrote of his experience with a single trigger Parker Reproduction 28 gauge. Many members shoot a reproduction or two and enjoy them. Bruce is correct that the 20 gauge models were a bit heavy for a 20 gauge Parker. The 28 gauge reproductions are wonderful guns and many times less expensive than an original Parker 28 gauge!

The single trigger problems can be corrected by a knowledgeable doublegun smith. The short length of pull cannot easily be corrected except by a slip on pad.

If you want a small bore Parker then a reproduction may be for you. Or, maybe not...

Mark

[Bindlestiff]

I have been hunting and shooting a Repro 28ga DHE since 199? with no problems at all. My hunting buddy hunts with a Repro 12ga BHE and I don't think he has had any issues either. We both have dbl triggers so I can't comment on the single doubling.

I, for one think these guns are great to carry and shoot and a great value too.

[Bill Murphy]

I used to shoot competitive International Skeet with Bruce Buck, so I can attest that he knows which end the shot comes out. However, his assessment of stock dimensions does not jive with my experience. My straight grip 28 gauge has a 14 5/8 length of pull to the front trigger, which is plenty long for me. Also, the most complaints about drop have been that the stocks are too straight, not too crooked, as Bruce describes. Also, I don't know anyone who has not been able to solve the single trigger problems. If you buy an unfired or lightly used single trigger Repro, understand that you are buying a gun that is either dry inside or has 30 year oil on the inside. Expect that some of these guns will have single trigger problems. Our experience on this subforum is that a good cleaning solves these problems. I think you will get more hard information on Repros on this subforum than from gun reviewers who "once shot a Repro".

[nid-28]

Bill M. is right on in his comments! The single trigger issues are really non-issues with a good cleaning and light lube. LOP's do vary from gun to gun but are adequate fir most folks, esp with hunting clothes on!

[Wild Skies]

Standard LOP of Repros typically varied from 14 1/8" for a ST in the rear position gun to 14 3/8" and 14 3/4" for DT guns. I'd bet many owners of original classic American doubles wish their guns had trigger pulls as long as the Repros -- not to mention the excessive drop found on many of them.

[Dean Romig]

Among my Repro's is a twenty-gauge with a single trigger, straight stock and beavertail. It has two sets of barrels, 26" and 28". I've shot it for a decade at many thousands of skeet targets and never experienced any of the issues "Technoid" seems to have been plagued with... never!

[Autumn Daze]

And let us not forget there are those that cannot shoot a single trigger gun.

[Bill Murphy]

You must remember that the Repro you buy will have the stock dimensions of the gun that you have agreed to buy. Once you have the gun in hand, the stock dimensions will be either what you want or what you don't want. Ask your questions before you send the check. My "ONE" Repro arrived at my door with the exact specifications that I asked for. Don't pay for a gun you won't like.

[Gary Laudermilch]

Rud,

You are apparently doing your homework before purchasing - a wise move in any case. I would like to offer you my two cents on repros which will likely differ from those of others. I do not intend it to be derrogatory toward any other opinions but, rather, give you another point of view.

I have two repros and they are considerably different in dynamics. Both are 20's, pistol grip, double trigger guns. One is 26" splinter at 6/12 lbs.and the other 28" beavertail at very near the 7 lb mark. I've owned one straight grip gun and will never have another which is contrary to popular opinion. They just do not suit me except for aesthetics.

The short gun is my go to grouse gun. I'm creeping up on the 70 mark and find it very easy to carry. I've shot many a gun while pursuing ol' ruff and this Parker is one of the best I have ever handled. The longer gun was purpose bought for clays and some dove hunting. While dynamically different it is well suited to my intended use although I don't think I would pursue another beavertail as it is a bit bulky for my tastes. It does keep your hands cool though. These guns get quite hot quickly when shooting 5-stand or skeet. I have shot numerous 28 ga. guns and have yet to find one that suits me because the field guns are just too light for me. If you want to have a pleasant experience take a heavier 20 and shoot 3/4 oz loads at moderate velocity. I guarantee it will put a smile on your face.

I love my repros and while I have no experience with the single trigger I think there are others that can effectively advise you on that issue. On the negative side of the equation though; I have broken ejector hammers on both my guns. Others have not had the same experience so I must be attracted to weak ejector guns.

If you like the Parker repro do not hesitate to pursue one that suits your needs/tastes. Take your time to find the right one. It took me 4 years to find the 28 inch gun at the right price. It will be worth the time. Good Luck!