Parker Invincible
Parker Brothers · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1929
Also known as: Parker Invincible Grade, Parker Bros. Invincible
Overview
The Parker Invincible is a side-by-side, break-action double-barreled shotgun representing the pinnacle grade of Parker Brothers, America's most celebrated double-gun maker. Built on Parker's hammerless boxlock action, it featured a gold single trigger, full hand engraving, gold bird inlays on the receiver, and a soft rubber recoil pad. Cataloged in 1929 as the most expensive American shotgun ever offered, only three Invincibles were ever completed before the Great Depression and Parker's 1934 sale to Remington ended production.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3400 g (119.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1156 mm (45.51") |
| Barrel Length | 711 mm (27.99") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Internal Hammer |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2560 J (1888 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Engraved |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12ga, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Action Double Barrel
- Safety mechanisms: Tang Safety
- Features: Break Action, Side By Side Barrels, Boxlock, Hammerless, Single Trigger, Top Lever, Gold Inlays, Full Engraving, Recoil Pad
Production
Estimated total produced: 3 · Production years: 1929-1934
Only three Invincible-grade shotguns were ever manufactured; the Depression halted further orders of Parker's top grade
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 1934
Notes
Only three Parker Invincible-grade guns were built (two 12-gauge and one 16-gauge). Priced around $1,250-$1,500 new, they are today regarded as the finest and most valuable American shotguns; the surviving trio has been insured for roughly $5 million and resides in the NRA National Firearms Museum.
Background
Introduced as Parker's highest grade, the Invincible was so costly that almost no one could afford one, and the onset of the Great Depression sealed its fate at just three guns. The first was reportedly built to commemorate the firm's 200,000th gun, making the tiny run the crown jewels of American shotgun collecting.