Parker Bros Tojan SxS 12ga. Keep or Sell?

[CountryStyle]

So I did some work for a person that is not a firearms enthusiast, and while doing this I came across an old Parker Brothers Shotgun. Didn't know much about it, its value, or if it even functioned. They basically paid me for the work by giving the shotgun to me.

I have looked into it and it seems that it was manufactured in 1926 and is the Trojan grade. It is in decent condition, slight ding on the left barrel at the end and a small chip out of the stock, but everything seems original, which is a good thing.

The only problem is that it seems to have professionally cut barrels. I measured them end to end and it comes to about 25 1/2 inches. The front bead is still there and I see no marks, but the ribbing between the barrels and the end is not "capped". I don't see any Trojans were ever produced with smaller than a 26 inch barrel, and even at that length I believe there were only 2 ever made. Most were 28 or 30 inches.

The thing shoots light target loads great, and locks up tighter than any other shotgun I have ever held. It is built like a tank, they definitely don’t make them like this anymore!!

I have been thinking of selling it, as I don’t see myself as a collector of these and I think someone else may appreciate it more than I do and give it a great home. I am aware that with the barrels being short it is not as collectable as it would have been. But I was just looking to see people’s opinions on if I should sell it (and buy a nice new trap gun that I will keep forever) or keep it and give it to my grandkids 40 years from now?

[TTgunner]

I would just keep it. In that condition it is not collectable IMHO.

[bkmeis]

Regardless of the imperfections, I recommend keeping it. It is a decent gun - and as you pointed out, they don't make them that way anymore. Although it is not something I would say often, its ok to have a safe queen. You will not live with any regret.

[IronButt]

I'd keep it for sure. It's a good find & that thing would make a great grouse or pheasant gun. Of course, I love SxS shotguns & bird hunting. You may have different interests.

I see that I've just necro-posted on a thread that's almost 2 months old!

[floppy ears]

I would recommend that you sell it...to me.

Part of the family that started the company is actually good friends with my in-laws. I've had the chance to listen to them talk about the company which was rather interesting. I wish I had the ability to afford such a luxury. Congrats my friend.

If you don't mind my asking, what was the value of the service you performed?


Regards,

Jeff

[Pete D.]

I hope that you kept the gun. The old Parkers are great guns.
I have a VH now for years....and no, they don't make'em like that any more.

[CountryStyle]

I think at this point I will take the advice and keep it. It really is a beautiful, simple, and well made firearm. I figure the value is around $650, so I'll pick up some super light loads and take her out of the safe a few times per year to keep her in shape.

[Noah_Zark]

Good choice. And we can continue to call you Trojan Man.

Noah

[floppy ears]

Good choice. And we can continue to call you Trojan Man.

Noah

Brilliant.

[Pete D.]

Federal makes Shotshells for "classic" shotguns.
Also, try RST Shotshells. Available in a number of lower pressure loads. I have used their Falcon Light load. Nice.
They can be had from Woodcock Hill in Benton, PA.
Google is your friend.
Pete