Tight 16ga. chokes?

[Gary O]

I am considering a sxs European 16ga. shotgun that was built back in the 20's. It is nitro proofed ( I think). The stated chokes are described as "tight and tighter". If I could wish it they would turn into IC/M. Since that does not seem possible, can I open the chokes up or use spreader loads: mostly 1oz. of 6's and 7.5's at 1100 fps? What say you? Thanks...

 

[rcmodel]

Yes, it is possible to open up the chokes to any degree you want with a choke reamer.

The thing you might run into though is a European gun that old is almost certainly chambered for shorter shells then those commonly available in the U.S. today.

From Brownells:

16 Gauge: The 29⁄16" chamber length was both the American and
the European standard until 1929 when the American standard
was changed to the current 23⁄4" length. The European standard
did not change until after World War II and even today the 29⁄16"
(65mm) is still popular in some sections of Europe.

Full version:
http://www.brownells.com/userdocs/learn/Inst-100.pdf

rc

 

[Gary O]

It was checked by a gunsmith at 2 3/4" chambers...Thanks.

 

[rcmodel]

Someone like Briley can open the chokes up to what you want for like $95 per barrel.

http://www.brileygunsmithing.com/shotgun_gunsmithing_pricing.html

rc

 

[oneounceload]

Opening the chokes is easy for Briley as RC stated. What do the PROOF marks say the chambers are? If they say 65mm, you have a 2-1/2"gun; if they say 70, you have 2-3/4. If they say 65 and your smith is correct that they are indeed 2-3/4, then they were altered after the original manufacture. If there are no new proof marks, then the gun is out of proof and should be checked thoroughly to ensure it is safe to shoot. IF that is the case, I would refrain from too many modern high velocity and high pressure loads - there are plenty of others available at RST, Polywad and

Good luck with your new gun!