Parker-Hale Rifles

[dbm]

Parker-Hale reproduction muzzle loading rifles are a popular choice of many. In recent times following the demise of the company the so called '1st Generation' manufacture have become highly desireable items.

In May, following several queries about dating Parker-Hale rifles and distinguishing '1st generation' manufacture, possibly from serial numbers, I started to gather information. I now have opportunity to get some questions to someone who was involved with P-H's production of muzzle loading rifles.

If anyone has any specific questions they would like asking please let me know. I am curious for instance as to why/when the Volunteer rifle changed form it's original manufacture with Rigby rifling to Henry rifling. There was also a variant of the P/53 that had 1:48 rifling.

I am also seeking serial numbers for the following Parker-Hale muzzle loading rifles, plus the additional information if known. An indication of when the rifle was bought new would be helpful.

Pattern 1853 Rifle Musket

Rifling twist if known: some were manufactured with a 1:48 twist

Pattern 1858 Naval Rifle

Pattern 1861 Artillery Carbine (Musketoon)

Volunteer .451 rifle

Rifling: Rigby or Henry (the earliest had Rigby rifling)

Barrel length: 33" or 36"

Whitworth .451 rifle

Please email the information to me at dbm@lrml.org.

I appreciate that some people are sensitive to providing such information, but assure you that it will be treated in confidence.

Thanks for your co-operation.

I'm not sure how quick I can get answers back to my questions but I will post feedback when available. These fine reproductions continually generate interest and myth and it is a shame not to try and pull something of their history together.

David