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Sunday, July 15, 2012

The Parker Project

Note: The following article was written by my friend, William "Butch" Reid, an accomplished trap shooter who has graciously provided it for readers of this Blog.

Three days before my forty fifth birthday,  I finally acquired a true, American classic. After years of searching for a fine double that my budget could endure I am now the proud owner of a Parker Brothers V grade side by side in 16 gauge. On my routine weekend searches at the local gun dealers, I stumbled upon this little diamond in the rough setting on a shelf behind the counter, out of public reach. 

I recognized the Parker screw pattern on the bottom of the receiver and inquired if it was for sale. As luck would have it, the gun was available and When it was handed to me, I knew it would be mine. As I held it, I marveled at its light weight and graceful lines which were marked by a thin receiver and barrels that make it feel like a natural extension of the body that balances exactly between the hands, just as it should.  The Parker side by side is fast swinging and perfect as a flushing game gun.