Search the Community

As part of a three project gun purchase, I got a Parker DH 12 gauge shotgun without barrels. It was a jigsaw puzzle with a couple of parts missing. Having no experience with a Parker shotgun and already disassembled, it was a challenge to get it back together. I've been searching for a set of barrels for this gun since I got it. The only advantage I had was that it was a 12 gauge built on the most common frame size for that gauge. Two weeks ago a set came up on eBay. By exchanging messages with the guy that had them up for sale, the critical dimensions looked like they should fit. I opted for the "buy now" deal rather than wait for the auction to close. Last Thursday they came. They were in great shape inside with less great finish outside. It looks like rust had been brushed off. But the ribs were solid and had the extractor and other small parts that made it complete. It was anxious wait for the barrels to arrive and for the moment I could tell if the gamble was going to pay off. The "lump" on the replacement barrel was a few thousandth thicker than the mortus of the action. Just a few thousandth, but I proceeded with caution and used hones to take the with down until they finally snapped shut. What a sigh of releaf. The next part of the puzzle is fitting the forend. It is REAL close but I'm not decided where a little metal needs to be taken off. I'm not rushing it. When I get the puzzle finished, I'll decide if it will be worth having the barrels professionally refinished or try something myself or just leave them as they are. The action still has a great amount of color case and the wood is excellent.