[TurkeyHunter]

I have a very nice Model 12 Heavy-Mag Duck gun in 12 gauge - 30" full - 3" Mag. vented rib.
The choke size is .685 at the muzzle. (Extra full?)

I have been told NOT to shoot modern Steel loads in it.

I am wondering if just REAMING the choke out to .710 or .715 would be enough for this "Old Boy" to see action in the Duck Blind.

Also, do I need to enlarge the chamber or forcing cone too?

The gun is very nice at 95%.

If it were 100% - new in box, I would not consider this modification.

I want to use it and I don't think it would reduce the value of this fine gun!

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Bill

[mete]

There are more types of shells for waterfowl than just steel.Do some research to see if the bismuth etc shells are ok with the gun.

[HSMITH]

If you decide to shoot steel keep it to #4 and smaller, AND know that you might just ruin the barrel by doing so. Barrel bulges are a peculiar thing, some guns will shoot BBB steel by the case with no apparent damage at all while others will bulge on the first shot of #4's. The M12 heavy duck is one of the true classics, I would reserve it to bismuth or tungsten/polymer shot only if after migratory game birds. I would not ream the choke no matter what, but I am somewhat of a 'purist' when it comes to guns like yours.

[Wildalaska]

What HS said

WildleaveitaloneAlaska

[Jim K]

What HSMITH and Wildalaska said. Don't ruin a fine old gun.

Jim

[TurkeyHunter]

It has a 3" chamber.
If I only shot 2 3/4" steel loads, would that be safe?

Is it safe to use modern plastic lead loads in it?

I was told the gun was originally designed for paper shells and if I shoot ANY plastic shells, I need to modify the Forcing Cone.

I'd hate to have this beautiful shotgun hidden inside a gun safe.

Bill

[Jim Watson]

ANY steel load will damage the barrel, shell length does not matter much.

It will shoot plastic hull lead shot loads just fine.

Treat it to some Bismuth shot. That is expensive but it is soft enough to use in old, tight choked barrels.

I have read of a Duck Gun being rebored to handle moderate amounts of small steel shot, but barrel life is still limited and the work is expensive. You can buy a lot of Bismuth at current goose limits for the price of the overhaul.

[TurkeyHunter]

Thanks to all who responded. You guys are all right by me.

Bill

:)