Early parker questions.

[Charles Lorenz]

I was given a Parker double barrel shotgun from my grandfather about 15 years ago. I put it in my gun cabinet and never really thought much about it. As I was trying to shove another gun in the cabinet the other day I decided to pull it out and look more into it. All I know about the gun is that it was my grate grandfathers gun but don't know if he bought it new or used. As of right now I am not even sure it is a real Parker. The gun is not in the best of shape not sure if it is even worth anything. I took a bunch of pics hoping you guys might be able to help me out.
Charles












[URL=http://s1110.photobucket.com/user/lorenz725/media/CC0BDC0E-8B04-4C08-9F46-7C44F39B6BEC_zpsiphtpczj.jpg.html][IMG]http:

[OH Osthaus]

looks like a real nice Parker lifter - a grade 3?

we could give you some details if there wasn't tape over the serial number

what are the bores like?

assuming that is is in shootable condition, yes it is worth something

[Charles Lorenz]

I only put tape on them because I seen others did. Not really sure why. Here is the SN 17523. The bores are clean for the most part.

[Mike McKinney]

I'd say it's a pretty nice gun and one you should be really proud of. You should spring for a membership in PGCA and order a letter, could be some really good info for your gun.

[B. Dudley]

Wow! Nice gun in that it is a higher grade. As rich suggested, looks like a grade 3. But it is hard to tell sometimes with the earlier guns.
Guns of this early vintage in grades higher than 2 are not very commonly seen.
Yes, the gun is not in fantastic cosmetic condition. But it is all there and looks to be solid and sound.

[Charles Lorenz]

Thanks for the comments about the gun. I do want to get a membership and a letter for sure just have to save up some money. Anyone know a good gunsmith in the Ohio area I would really like to get it checked out and see if I would be a able to shoot it.

[Bob Hardison]

That's a family heirloom for sure. Bob

[OH Osthaus]

Originally Posted by Charles Lorenz

I only put tape on them because I seen others did. Not really sure why. Here is the SN 17523. The bores are clean for the most part.

the book lists that gun as a grade 3 12 gauge with 30 inch barrels, just what the pictures show - a great unmessed with gun.

with the barrels mounted, but not the foreend- hold the gun vertical and give it a shake with a twist of the wrist, i doubt you will hear it rattle, (this checks the barrel being on face to the action), and hang the barrels by the barrel hook from a finger (over a bed is a good idea in case they fall) and flick the barrels with a finger nail from the other hand - you should hear a gentle ring like a tuning fork- this shows the solder is in good shape- i fully expect this gun to pass these simple tests with flying colors.

hopefully - an Ohio member can refer you to someone who can check the wall thickness - or offer to do it for you. with the family history - but I do not expect the bores have been honed.

Order from shells from RST and enjoy it

I think any of us would be very thrilled to have that gun as a family heirloom - I would not do any thing more than a gentle cleaning and keep it. You'll likely get offers, if you have not already- ignore them please

keep it for the next generation

[Hammer Gun]

Thats for sure a keeper, some nice engraving, and a TLC and you will have people turning their heads when they see it, Gary

[Charles Lorenz]

Thank you all for the info on the gun. I am very excited about the gun and I do hope to shoot it one day. I am going to save up and join the site there is a lot of good info and I think I can learn a lot. Thanks again!