P-H Serial Numbers

[hobbler]

Does anyone know of a listing to check the date of manufacture for a P-H 1861 Musketoon?

[R. McAuley 3014V]

My great-great-grandfather had a horse named "Hobbler" when he was deputy sheriff of Clark Co, Arkansas Territory, 1827-30. But to answer your question, the date of manufacture of Parker-Hales in Birmingham, England, is indicated on the underside of the barrel with a two-letter code in a circlet or incorporated with an "X" usually to the right of the powder charge instructions (i.e. AB is 1975, FB is 1980, PC is 1989).

[hobbler]

Thanks for the info.
Just got one. Will look for the alpha codes when I get home.

[R. McAuley 3014V]

Hobbler, you and other Parker-Hale owners might ought to get yourself a copy of this image for your records. I've had this for some time and can no longer find it online, other than many other people talking about it but not having it to give out to anyone:

http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/rmac1023/BPH_zpsvrnhojup.jpg

[hobbler]

Well, I've lost the list.
Can anyone re-upload it?

[musketnut]

https://www.n-ssa.net/vbforum/attachment.php?attachmentid=7434&d=1545315117

[dbm]

I have a database of over 600 Parker-Hale rifles. I'm keen to hear from anyone (use direct message for privacy if you wish) who will let me know the serial number of any Parker-Hale muzzle loading rifle they own / know of, along with its type (P.53, P.58, P.61, Volunteer or Whitworth). If possible please include the date proof code from the underside of the barrel; two letters and a number either between crossed swords or within a circle after the proof load information. This code is invaluable in building an understanding of the production time line.

If you have Pattern 1853 Enfield, if possible please check the rifling pitch and let me know - a tight fitting patch on a cleaning rod should give a good enough measure. Pitch should be 1 in 78 to match originals, but some were made with 1 in 48 pitch.

Volunteers originally had a form of Rigby rifling, later changed to Henry (denoted by a H prefix to the serial number).

Thanks for your interest / support.

David

[hobbler]

Thank you much for the date codes.

Some PH P53's were made with 48" twist also?
Learn something new every day.

My Armisport version of a P53 has their typically oversized bore but 48" twist for which I am truly grateful.