[BedroomHowitzer]

One of my newly acquired shotguns specifies 3" shells on the barrel. I have plenty of 2 3/4" shells. Is it safe to shoot 2 3/4" shells through a barrel rated for 3" only?

 

[RandyTheHack]

I'm sure others will chime in too, but I've always been told that 3" tells you you can shoot either 2 3/4" or 3" shells; there's no such thing as a 3" only (to the best of my knowledge). I've shot 2 3/4" shells in guns chambered for 3" shells pretty much all my life.

The one thing you don't ever want to do is try to shove a 3" shell in a 2 3/4" chamber. That never has a good outcome...

 

[boomstik]

Although I'm 99.9% sure you're fine with the 2 3/4 in. shells, ANYTIME you have an ammo question with any firearm (5.56 in a .223, .357 in a .38, 2 3/4 or 3 in., etc., etc.), you're best bet, and only sure way to an answer, is to check with the gun's manufacturer. Always better safe than sorry.

 

[BedroomHowitzer]

I have tried to contact the manufacturer and I keep getting switched around since the company that made the shotgun has changed hands several times and now doesn't even make shotguns anymore.

 

[boomstik]

Do you have a trusted gunsmith you could ask? I take it this is an older gun?

 

[BedroomHowitzer]

I think it's from the 50's. it's for the CVA I posted about in the identification and worth section. And no I don't know a trusted gunsmith.

 

[boomstik]

Maybe check with some local shooters about a gunsmith. There has to be someone who knows their stuff.

 

[rice paddy daddy]

I'm sure others will chime in too, but I've always been told that 3" tells you you can shoot either 2 3/4" or 3" shells; there's no such thing as a 3" only (to the best of my knowledge). I've shot 2 3/4" shells in guns chambered for 3" shells pretty much all my life.

The one thing you don't ever want to do is try to shove a 3" shell in a 2 3/4" chamber. That never has a good outcome...

This is correct. If your barrel is marked 3" you may use either 2 3/4" or 3".
If it is marked 3 1/2" you may use all three.
Most of my shotguns are 3" chambers but I most often use 2 3/4" because it will get most jobs done without excessive recoil. I only use 3" in my 410's.
Firing a 3" max buckshot load in a 6 pound H&R 12 ga single shot WILL get your attention. Trust me on this.
I got a good deal on a used Remington 870 Super Magnum Express 12 ga that will accomodate 3 1/2" shells, but I have absolutely no desire to experience it.

 

[Keltyke]

It does not "specify" 3" shells. It states that it's chambered for 3" maximum. It will also handle 2 3/4". I've shot 3" Mags. from a lightweight 12 ga. and frankly, it's not pleasant. For home defense, 2 3/4" will definitely get the job done.

 

[RandyTheHack]

A good high brass 2 3/4" hunting shell will let you know it's there...

 

[olhippy]

It does not "specify" 3" shells. It states that it's chambered for 3" maximum. It will also handle 2 3/4". I've shot 3" Mags. from a lightweight 12 ga. and frankly, it's not pleasant. For home defense, 2 3/4" will definitely get the job done.

Yep, agreed. You should be fine with 2 3/4" shells. Run a couple of low brass target loads through it and get the feel of it. JMO

 

[PowPow]

One of my newly acquired shotguns specifies 3" shells on the barrel...

Is it an auto? Some older automatic shotguns will only cycle with the big stuff.
Won't hurt to try it. If it doesn't cycle 2-3/4", it might be one of those.

 

[arg0naut22]

Do you have a trusted gunsmith you could ask? I take it this is an older gun?

hey boomstik--not to veer this thread off topic, but if i may, where do you shoot here in vegas? i've recently taken up trap, and have been going to the clark cty shotgun range. beautiful facility, but it can start to feel pricey after a few rounds. any thoughts on better deals?

 

[Blitzkrieg]

2 & 3/4 will be fine

And BTW magnum shotshell merely means a heavier payload of shot, not higher pressure in the handgun sense

 

[olhippy]

2 & 3/4 will be fine

And BTW magnum shotshell merely means a heavier payload of shot, not higher pressure in the handgun sense

I did not know this! Learn something everyday.

 

[Blitzkrieg]

I did not know this! Learn something everyday.

I only learned this a few years back

 

[olhippy]

I only learned this a few years back

I`ll be 57 years old next month and I did not know that in shotguns, magnum meant a higher payload, not more pressure. Appreciate the info!

 

[jackdaniels]

I am not a gunsmith or a gun expert but I have all ways heard that you have to be careful firing modern ammo in older guns.The steel that older guns are made of was not as strong as the steel used today.I would be very careful with the ammo you use in your 1950 shotgun.For your own good you should let a gunsmith check it out before firing it period.
JMHO

 

[Blitzkrieg]

I`ll be 57 years old next month and I did not know that in shotguns, magnum meant a higher payload, not more pressure. Appreciate the info!

52 here and still kickin

 

[Lshoemaker32]

A fellow ( who is susposed to know) working at gun store told me that my Beretta 12 gauge Magnum would only shoot 3" shells. If so, why have I not had any problem shooting 2 3/4" shells???