Parker Brothers PHE
Parker Brothers · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1889
Also known as: Parker PHE, Parker PH Ejector, Parker Grade 1 Hammerless Ejector
Overview
The Parker Brothers PHE is a side-by-side, break-action double-barreled shotgun built on Parker's hammerless boxlock action. It is the Grade 1 (P grade) hammerless gun fitted with selective automatic ejectors, the 'E' suffix denoting ejectors rather than plain extractors. Sitting a step above the field-grade VH, the PHE offered slightly better walnut, light engraving around the frame screws, and a color case-hardened receiver. Chambered most commonly in 12 gauge with twin triggers and a top lever, it is a classic American double from the maker known as 'Old Reliable'.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3345 g (118.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1194 mm (47.01") |
| Barrel Length | 762 mm (30.00") |
| 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 | Wood |
| Finish | Color Case Hardened |
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, Double Trigger, Top Lever, Automatic Ejectors, Engraved Receiver, Walnut Stock
Production
Estimated total produced: 15,588 · Production years: 1889-1942
Figure is the total for all PH-grade hammerless guns (extractor and ejector); the ejector-equipped PHE is the scarcer, more collectible subset.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Discontinued: 1942
Notes
Parker graded its guns by quality: Trojan, VH (Grade 0), PH (Grade 1), GH (Grade 2), DH, CH, BH, AH, up to the A-1 Special and Invincible. Ejectors were an option on the PH grade; guns so fitted are marked PHE and command a collector premium. Later production passed to Remington, which bought Parker Brothers in 1934 and continued the line to about 1942.
Background
Parker Brothers began as a Connecticut maker of coffee mills and other hardware before turning to shotguns after the Civil War, earning the nickname 'Old Reliable'. Even a modest Grade 1 PHE ejector gun is prized today by collectors of the American double.