Can old shotgun "handle" buckshot?

[lloydkristmas]

This may sound like a silly question, but I've got an old bolt-action 16 gauge shotgun that I inherited from my grandfather when he passed away. Its nothing valuable, I think its one of those Sears-brand guns. The magazine doesnt work reliably, so its basically a longggg barreled single shot gun with a bolt action. Anyway, I'd like to be able to use it as a secondary defense shotgun (I already have a reliable Mossberg that is my main home defense weapon) but I have concerns about its durability. I told a friend about my plan, and he said something like be careful of those old bird guns, they were made for birdshot and might fall apart or worse under the strain of "antipersonnel" loads. Is this true? I've shot a box or two of 16 gauge birdshot with no issues, but what about buckshot? I'll probably have a gunsmith friend of mine look at it next time Im in the area, but for now, is there any real danger with using buckshot in this gun?

Thanks guys

 

[mnrivrat]

The most likely answer to your question is - no problem.

There realy should not be an issue with your bolt gun. Both Mossberg and Stevens made bolt shotguns and either were strong enough if in good condition to shoot buckshot without an issue. Never hurts to have your gunsmith friend varify this. If it is safe to shoot your birdshot, it will handle buckshot just fine.

 

[Pete409]

I had one of those Sears (J.C. Higgins) 16 gauge bolt action shotguns, but sold it about a year ago. I shot a variety of loads (including slugs) through it with no problems. They are good sturdy guns, although the 12 gauge version was recalled by Sears several years ago due to a potential defect in the welding of the bolt handle.

 

[rcmodel]

Standard buckshot loads actually stress an action no more then many birdshot hunting loads. And maybe not as much as some!

Nine 00 Buck pellets equate to something between a 1 1/8 oz and 1 1/4 oz shot charge in weight, and the velocity is very similiar to a trap or hunting load.

Pressure of all shotgun loads is also reletavely the same, regardless of whether they are shot, buck, or slug loads.

If the gun is in good working condition, you can shoot any 2 3/4" load you want in it.

rcmodel

 

[foghornl]

Depending on the age of that gun, it may NOT be suitable for the "Un-Leaded" loads required for waterfowl hunting.

Since you did mention this would be a backup home defense gun, probably not an issue, but something to keep in mind.