Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Auction Company is pleased to present this ANTIQUE side-by-side top-action hammer shotgun for a penny-start auction today; this is the Parker Bros Quality T!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Parker Bros
Model: Quality T (Grade 0)
Serial: 43410
Date of Manufacture: 1884
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 26" Plain Twisted Steel Barrels with RH Cylinder and LH Cylinder Chokes
Optics/Sights: Front and Mid Bead Sights
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Straight Grip Stock and Forearm
Action: Side-by-Side, Top-Action Hammer Gun
Markings: Stampings can be seen in pictures 17, 35, 45, 59-65.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
Parker Bros., a distinguished American firearms manufacturer, established its legacy from 1867 to 1942, producing a total of approximately 242,000 shotguns across various grades. Founded in Meriden, Connecticut, by Charles Parker initially as Parker Snow Co., the company pivoted from producing rifles for the Union Army during the Civil War to crafting shotguns renowned for their craftsmanship and quality. Parker shotguns quickly gained a reputation as some of the finest American firearms, showcased at prestigious expositions such as the Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia (1876) and the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago (1893). The company's presence at these events solidified its status as a leading manufacturer in the industry, noted for its innovative designs and superior performance.
Throughout its history, Parker Bros. specialized primarily in break-open style shotguns, predominantly side-by-side double-barreled configurations, although they also produced single-barrel models tailored for trap shooting. The transition from exposed hammer designs to hammerless guns in 1888 marked a significant advancement in firearm technology for Parker, reflecting trends towards more streamlined and safer operations. Parker shotguns were available in a wide range of gauges from 8 to .410, with each gauge offering varying degrees of rarity and collectibility in today’s market. The company distinguished its offerings through different grades, from economical models to high-end versions like the A-1 Special/Invincible, which boasted intricate engraving, premium wood stocks, and superior barrel steel. This tiered pricing strategy ensured that Parker shotguns catered to both practical hunters and discerning collectors seeking heirloom-quality firearms. Remington Arms acquired Parker Bros. in 1934, marking the end of an era for a brand that remains synonymous with excellence in American shotgun manufacturing.
Parker initiated the production of their Grade 0 shotguns in 1869, marking the beginning of their graded system. Initially, Grade 0 was denoted by models R, S, T, U, and VH, each varying in configuration based on gauge and stock options. These early models featured Decarbonized Steel barrels, later transitioning to Plain Twist, Stub Twist, or Plain Steel barrels. Initially designed as back-action lifter guns, they evolved into front-action lifters over time. In 1899, Parker introduced the hammerless Grade 0, known as the VH, featuring Vulcan steel barrels. Despite being the entry-level model, Grade 0 shotguns maintained Parker's hallmark quality with exceptional fit and finish. They typically lacked extensive embellishments such as checkering or elaborate engraving, using plain, straight grain American walnut for the stocks. Engraving was minimal, usually consisting of a simple border around the frame. Early models sported plain metal butt plates, later replaced by hard rubber dog's head butt plates. The frame, forend iron, and locks were casehardened to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. Ejectors were an optional feature on VH grade models, with those equipped (VHE) commanding higher value among collectors, sometimes increasing their collector value by up to 50%. Production numbers for Grade 0 shotguns totaled 117,612 units, including 15,499 lifter hammers, 23,443 top lever hammers, and 78,670 hammerless variants.
Condition:
As you can see in the many high-resolution photos, this example is in Great condition overall, showing much less than normal evidence for a gun its age!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Model: Quality T (Grade 0)
Serial: 43410
Date of Manufacture: 1884
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 26" Plain Twisted Steel Barrels with RH Cylinder and LH Cylinder Chokes
Optics/Sights: Front and Mid Bead Sights
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Straight Grip Stock and Forearm
Action: Side-by-Side, Top-Action Hammer Gun
Markings: Stampings can be seen in pictures 17, 35, 45, 59-65.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
Parker Bros., a distinguished American firearms manufacturer, established its legacy from 1867 to 1942, producing a total of approximately 242,000 shotguns across various grades. Founded in Meriden, Connecticut, by Charles Parker initially as Parker Snow Co., the company pivoted from producing rifles for the Union Army during the Civil War to crafting shotguns renowned for their craftsmanship and quality. Parker shotguns quickly gained a reputation as some of the finest American firearms, showcased at prestigious expositions such as the Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia (1876) and the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago (1893). The company's presence at these events solidified its status as a leading manufacturer in the industry, noted for its innovative designs and superior performance.
Throughout its history, Parker Bros. specialized primarily in break-open style shotguns, predominantly side-by-side double-barreled configurations, although they also produced single-barrel models tailored for trap shooting. The transition from exposed hammer designs to hammerless guns in 1888 marked a significant advancement in firearm technology for Parker, reflecting trends towards more streamlined and safer operations. Parker shotguns were available in a wide range of gauges from 8 to .410, with each gauge offering varying degrees of rarity and collectibility in today’s market. The company distinguished its offerings through different grades, from economical models to high-end versions like the A-1 Special/Invincible, which boasted intricate engraving, premium wood stocks, and superior barrel steel. This tiered pricing strategy ensured that Parker shotguns catered to both practical hunters and discerning collectors seeking heirloom-quality firearms. Remington Arms acquired Parker Bros. in 1934, marking the end of an era for a brand that remains synonymous with excellence in American shotgun manufacturing.
Parker initiated the production of their Grade 0 shotguns in 1869, marking the beginning of their graded system. Initially, Grade 0 was denoted by models R, S, T, U, and VH, each varying in configuration based on gauge and stock options. These early models featured Decarbonized Steel barrels, later transitioning to Plain Twist, Stub Twist, or Plain Steel barrels. Initially designed as back-action lifter guns, they evolved into front-action lifters over time. In 1899, Parker introduced the hammerless Grade 0, known as the VH, featuring Vulcan steel barrels. Despite being the entry-level model, Grade 0 shotguns maintained Parker's hallmark quality with exceptional fit and finish. They typically lacked extensive embellishments such as checkering or elaborate engraving, using plain, straight grain American walnut for the stocks. Engraving was minimal, usually consisting of a simple border around the frame. Early models sported plain metal butt plates, later replaced by hard rubber dog's head butt plates. The frame, forend iron, and locks were casehardened to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. Ejectors were an optional feature on VH grade models, with those equipped (VHE) commanding higher value among collectors, sometimes increasing their collector value by up to 50%. Production numbers for Grade 0 shotguns totaled 117,612 units, including 15,499 lifter hammers, 23,443 top lever hammers, and 78,670 hammerless variants.
Condition:
As you can see in the many high-resolution photos, this example is in Great condition overall, showing much less than normal evidence for a gun its age!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
