Shooting modern loads in a 1870's Parker Shotgun. Is it safe?

[was_peacemaker]

I have inherited a 1870's Parker double barrel 12 gauge shotgun. From what I understand, back in the day they were using blackpowder loads and paper shells...would it be safe to use modern smokeless loads in this shotty? The locking mechanism is a tad loose... but, I must say the triggers are the smoothest I have ever seen on any gun...and the metal work is so nice on this thing.

Safe or not?

[Helen Keller]

could give RTS a call , they know all about the yes/no's when it comes to old shotguns.


THey make specific ammo for older guns that can't handle todays pressures.

[Full Otto]

I just did some looking around for a guy at work. His was Damascus steel not sure of yours but there were pro's and con's about shooting it.
Modern loads "NO" but from both sides they said the main thing to do, if you plan on shooting it, was get the barrel professionally checked out to find even the smallest flaws or corrosion.
Molecular level type inspection, if that's the right term, there are places that do that

[O.S.O.K.]

What Full Otto said. Some twist barrels can handle black powder loads OK. But many are not safe. Only one way to find out.

Definately do not shoot modern loads in that fine shotty.

[Schuetzenman]

1870 is pre-nitrocellulose a.k.a. smokeless poweders. The first smokeless was about 1884. Shooting any modern cartridge in is is an exercise in trying to win a Darwin award. Do NOT SHOOT it with anything but real black powder or pyrodex etc.