Winchester Parker Repro DHE Grade 12 Ga Side By Side Shotgun W/ Case
SOLD FOR: $3,225.00
WOA#: WY240415EH258
Make: Olin-Kodensha, in Japan, for Winchester, Contracted by Reagent Chemical & Research
Model: Parker DHE Grade
Serial Number: 12-00029
Year of Manufacture: 1984-1989
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Side by Side, Box Lock, Top Break, Single Selectable Mechanical Trigger Shotgun with Ejectors
Markings: The left of each barrel set is marked “Parker Reproductions by “WINCHESTER – 12 GAUGE. 2 ¾” / EAST ALTON, IL. U.S.A.”. The right barrel of each set is marked “MADE IN JAPAN”. The left barrel flat is marked “MOD.”, “12-00029” with an ovalled “WP” proof, the right is marked “IMP. CYL.”, and each barrel flat is marked “OVERLOAD / PARKER REPRODUCTION / PROVED”. The bottom of the barrel lug is marked “I 1/2”. The left side of the barrel lug is marked “D GRADE 12 GA. / FOR 2 ¾” SHELLS”. The top of the forend bracket is marked with the serial number. The water table is marked “DHE / 12-00029”, the sides of the frame have a pointer and setter, with to-spec Parker D-grade scroll engraving; the underside of the frame has D-engraving and “PARKER” with birds in flight. The upper tang is marked “SAFE”, the lower tang has the serial number. The belly of the butt stock has a metal oval insert that has not been engraved.
Barrel Length: 26”, with solid, concave, tapered rib.
Choke: The left barrel is Modified, the right Improved Cylinder, both fixed.
Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a brass bead at the muzzle; the top of the rib is milled in a wave-like pattern for glare reduction, stopping at a scribed line just short of the muzzle.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece fancy walnut set. The splinter forend has case-colored D-grade engraved metal fixtures and wrap-around checkering, to the original Parker specifications. The butt stock has a capped pistol grip and a metal oval insert on the belly which has not been engraved. The butt of the stock has a metal buttplate with an exposed center. The center has checkering. The checkering is sharp. There is some minor handling wear present. The LOP measures 14 ¼” from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt. The stocks rate in Fine overall condition. The stock has a right hand cast, the drop at the comb is 1” and the drop at the heel is 1.5”
Type of Finish: Rust-Blued & Case Colored, with Grade D Engraving.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion but there is some light scratching and fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are some scratches and wear marks on the barrels. There is faint operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this shotgun rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The shotgun features a crisp single trigger, independent ejectors, an exceptionally tight action lockup and presents spectacular balance. The shotgun’s action automatically returns to “SAFE” when the action is opened but functions properly when manually set. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leatherbound hard case, a pair of snap caps, case keys.
Our Assessment: In 1984, Winchester was contracted by Reagent Chemical & Research, Inc. to manufacture a new Parker shotgun. The new SxS was a DHE model, available in 20 and 28 ga. initially. These models were fabricated in Japan to original Parker specifications, and the reproduction was so authentic that parts are interchangeable with the late Parkers made by Remington in Ilion, NY, with the exception of one screw. The original D Grade Parker used as the pattern gun unknowingly had a single replacement screw, which was meticulously reproduced by Kodensha on all of the Parker Reproductions. Tom Skeuse, the founder of Reagent and the driving force behind the Parker Reproductions project, would only find out later that this one screw was not original. On Sept. 17, 1999, a flood destroyed all remaining inventory, including parts and most of the factory records. This 12 gauge DHE Reproduction is in Fine condition and appears to have spent more time inside a safe than outside. The to-specification D grade engraving looks exceptional with the vibrant case coloring retaining marvelous tone variation. The shotgun has dual triggers and has independent ejectors. The fit and finish of this shotgun is truly something to behold. Whether you’re a Winchester or Parker collector or just want one of the finest 12 gauge doubles made, this is a great addition to any safe in America. Please see the photos, and good luck on your bid! -R.E.
