Have an older Parker that's been on the rack for many years. It was sleeved and completely rebuilt probably 20 years ago. It has always had a problem with the forend latch seating flush.

I pulled it out this morning to look it over and opened it to check the breach and shut it, took the forend off and cannot get the latch to seat closer than 1/4" against the barrels.

I'd appreciate any ideas you all have.

Try opening the barrels slightly as you push up on the fore end latch. sounds like the hanger wasn't in quite the right place when the barrels were put back together. May need a file stoke or two on the back of the hanger to let it go on easier. Try it without the wood also as the wood may be interfering.

Mark,

Thanks for the 'lead'. 'Smoked' the back of the lug and ever so slowly kissed the back of the lug with a file and brought the lever down to the latch position. Guess its a mystery of the north woods why this developed... but it's cured!

I LOVE it when a plan comes together !!