[chevyforlife21]

anyone here shoot old double barrel shotguns? (1940 or before) i just shot a 1890s exposed hammers double barrel today i was scared to shoot it, after everyone telling me it was a wallhanger (it doesn't look like damascus steel though) after a few days of wondering if i should ask a gunsmith first, i shot 20 rounds and had a good time.

[oneounceload]

Just remember to have that chamber length checked before you start shooting anything in it, and use "Vintager" type loads, NOT the modern promo loads from wally world. If the gun is sound (having been checked by a competent smith), treat a lady of that age with dignity by using the proper ammunition and she'll reward you with more years of fun and memories. Tick her off with hot stuff of the wrong size, and she'll take your fingers off!... :D ;)

Stay safe

[rcmodel]

1950 isn't old.

Some of the finest doubles ever made in America were made from the 1900's on.
Parker, L.C, Smith, Fox and others were making very fine shotguns with strong steel barrels early in the 20th. century.

I don't shoot old Damascus shotguns, period.

But I would have no qualms about shooting an old steel barrel Parker or something till the cows come home.

Age is no indicator of a quality gun if it still locks up tight and has steel, not Damascus barrels.

rc

[chevyforlife21]

well i took a chance with just light modern loads. (wallmart of course) haha. it does lock up very tight though

[oneounceload]

I doubt your 1890 gun was chambered for 2-3/4" shells - more likely 2-1/2. Pressure spikes from that can cause some serious damage and injury. Remember, shell length is fired length, not unfired - a 2-3/4 will fit in a 2-1/2 inch gun - don't shoot it like that

Added - the other option is to have it sleeved with a steel liner and then shoot modern-made low pressure loads

[chevyforlife21]

well i can see the chamber lines and it looks to be at least 2-3/4 fired. i wouldnt shoot anything more powerfull outa the thing though

[alsaqr]

I own and fire several old double barreled shotguns. One is a Parker CHE 20 gauge and another is a Remington model 1888 side hammer gun in 12 gauge with fluid steel barrels.

[oneounceload]

Chevy - do your fingers a favor and have someone with the right tool measure the chamber - it'll take a smith about 30 seconds

[SWAMPUS]

#1-16ga riverside exp hammer-shoots well.16 ga N.I.D. Ithaca f&m.20 ga Ithaca Flues model.Both Ithacas made in 1927.River side ?All shoot well and are for sale.

[huntsman]

I traded or sold all my doubles except one, and that one is only 39 years old. But yes have shot and hunted with pre 1940 SXS in the past.