Parker Shotgun

[H. K. Uriah, SASS #74619]

Here are the specs on a Parker Shotgun that I am aware of.

 

Parker Bros. SXS 28in twist steel hammerless, reblued c.1893 12ga $800

 

 

The barrells pass the "ring test" and the bores are very clean.

 

I am reasonably certain that "twist steel" is what Parker called Damascus style barrels, but I could be wrong.

 

I the opinion of folks here on the wire, is this a shooter or a wallhanger? If a shooter, is it a black powder only one?

 

The gun is VERY pretty, but I gotta be honest, I don't want it if I can't shoot it.

 

Anyone have any thoughts?

[G. I. Tarpicker, SASS #998]

H. K., I suggest you contact the Parker Gun Collectors Association at www.parkergun.org/forums. Someone there will be able to answer most, if not all of your questions. -- GIT

[J-BAR #18287]

IMO, it deserves to be retired, displayed, admired, and respected, rather than dinged in a gun cart.

[Semi Conductor, SASS #51020]

There is an on-going debate among shotgun folks about shooting damascus barreled guns with black or smokeless powder. There have been some very detailed studies done regarding pressure curves of both propellant that some argue overturns previous thinking that twist steel barrels should not be shot with anything but black powder. That’s a long lead in to say that an experienced gunsmith familiar with vintage shotguns should examine the gun if you’re thinking about shooting it. I’d provide a link to the discussion but the website that had the information is currently down.

 

Good luck with your parker. I second the suggestion to contact the Parker collectors group.