loading for antique 12 gauge

[IM391]

I used to make low pressure loads for an old parker s/s. I found out in addition to a powder shortage that now 7625 and PB(my favorite powders) are being discontinued at the end of 2014. Any suggestions? 1 1/8 oz. loads any powder, primer, stay with popular wads and hulls?

 

[PapaG]

Parker over/under? Didn't know they made one.
Barrel material? Twist or Fluid?

 

[IM391]

Damascus/ twist. Had checked out by a trusted gunsmith. Said it was ok to shoot modern loads as long as pressure was minimal. I like to stay under 6,000 psi

 

[243winxb]

Look up 800X powder on Hodgdon's website.

 

[rsrocket1]

Of course you know that with shotshell loading, you are supposed to follow the guidelines of specified hull, wad, primer, powder and shot weight right?

Well, most if not all load data also list pressures and you can easily select a load that stays within your range. Unless you are hunting meat, there is no requirement to stay at 1-1/8 oz shot if 1 ounce will also work if you want to have an extra margin of safety. A slightly dished crimp is no problem so long as you aren't leaking shot out of the shell.

If you look at the 7/8 and 3/4 ounce data, low pressures are the norm. We lightweight shooters are always trying to fight that low pressure in order to get a good clean burn and consistent velocity. In your case a safe, low pressure is what you want. A slightly "dirty" load would be acceptable because low pressure is the priority.

 

[PapaG]

I'm afraid I'll disagree with your gunsmith on using modern loads in a twist steel barrel. Black powder is the way to go. (or black powder substitute). You can choose to do what you want as it is your face next to the breech of the gun.
Winchester AA red wad over about 70 grains of FFg and an ounce and an eighth is a good load and should be safe.
PB is a really low pressure powder and I used it a lot for loads for my kids when they were starting out.

 

[Armored farmer]

I think Papa has this covered.
If you insist on shooting smokeless, I'd proof it first.
....but even then I don't know.

 

[CraigC]

I'm afraid I'll disagree with your gunsmith on using modern loads in a twist steel barrel.

This is based on myth. It all depends on the barrel. Some damascus barrels have been proofed for smokeless. Double Gun Journal did a test a few years back with two identical shotguns (Parker or LC Smith), one damascus and one fluid steel. They used test loads and steadily increased the pressure until they blew. The damascus barrel lasted longer. You cannot automatically assume that damascus barrels are weaker.

 

[jaguarxk120]

Please note: Purdy in England will build you a O/U, that is if one can pay for it.

Also the Purdy Damascus guns have no engraving, you do get your choice of wood.

 

[PapaG]

Your choice. Good luck. And I mean no ill will by that.

 

[oneounceload]

What length are the chambers? Parkers came in various lengths, depending on when it was made.

RST and Polywad sell low pressure Vintager type ammo designed to be safely used in old guns in good condition. They also sell reloading components. If your gun has 2-1/2 or 2-9/16 chambers, do not shoot modern 2-3/4 hulls