14 Gauge SN 147 -- New user trying to identify Parker SxS

[Logan Strother]

Hello,
I recently came across a lifter-action Parker SxS that I'm having trouble identifying. I tried to find the serial number etc. using the "Technical Information" page here at parkerguns.org, but the numbers don't appear as the website suggests they should. There is no stamp on the number stamped on the lug is 147, which does not match any of the codes provided, and does not make sense as a frame size indicator. There is no stamp on the flat. 147 is also stamped on the watertable - and that is all (no grade, etc.). On the rib "Parker Bros Makers Meriden Conn Damascus Steel" is stamped. Also, the underside of each barrel is stamped with a "22" and what looks like small crown and "BP". I've attached pictures all the stamps and the areas where I would expect stamps where there aren't any.
I'm not sure what gauge the gun is chambered for either: a 12 gauge shell doesn't fit, and a 16 gauge flops around in the chamber. I'm not sure if its a 14 gauge, or if its 16 that's very shot out. The gun is in pretty good shape (far from perfect, to be sure) and has lots of engraving.
Can anyone help me identify this gun?

Thanks -

Logan Strother

[Big Friend Ten (BFT)]

Logan,

I am not certain but... DO NOT sell this gun without a couple expert appraisals.
Note: One must be a PGCA member to sell via this PGCA forum...

You may have a rare 14 gauge Parker Brothers gun, serial number 147. I am probably wrong but maybe I am not! Nevertheless that is an early gun!

Mark

[Bindlestiff]

Is there any numbers or anything on the trigger bow? What do the extractors look like, are they large? Can you post pictures of the frame side & bottom as well as the forend?

Interesting gun.

[wayne goerres]

Well your gun has been to england. You have what looks like english proof marks on the barrels.

[Gunner]

More likely the tubes were made in England, assembled by PB here. If memory serves that is Birmingham provisional proof and not a final proof. Early Parkers had British sourced tubes.
Will be interesting to find out the chamber guage.
Welcome,
Erick

[Big Friend Ten (BFT)]

Gentlemen,

I am moving this thread to the General Discussions so that it received proper attention.

Mark

[Drew Hause]

Ken Barney posted this Pre-1874 Back Action Lifter



with 3 Iron Crolle



and Birmingham provisional proof marks first introduced in 1868. This proof was done with the tube unfinished, unchambered and not joined.

[edgarspencer]

Logan, I think you'll find that 147 is the serial number. Also, it very likely is a 14ga.
I think it's pretty neat that two 14 ga guns have resurfaced, and appeared here on the same day.

[Logan Strother]

Thank you everyone for your help so far!
There's nothing on the trigger guard, as far as any stamp or engraving, etc. Requested pictures are attached.
Also, I didn't mention before, but you'll see in the pictures, that 147 is also stamped on the slide lock for the forend. Is there anything else I can provide that will help identify the gun?

Logan

[Gunner]

Logan, If you remove the screw holding the trigger guard and twist the guard counterclockwise looking at the underside of the guard and the stock wood underneath you will almost certainly find the sn 147 in both places. Make certain you have a proper fitting screwdriver to remove the screw.
Your gun is a dollar grade back action Parker. The 1869 catalog would have listed it as the $110 grade if in either 11 or 12 ga. Most back action guns seen today will have lower grade "decarbonized steel" barrels.
I'd withhold judgement on whether the gun is or isn't 14 ga. until measurements and originality of the chambers are obtained. (Even then I wouldn't know what constitutes a 14 ga. chamber, but I'll bet others here have some pertinent information.)
The 1869 catalog listed 10, 11 and 12 ga. as available.
I hope this info is helpful.
Erick