Old shotgun from 1930 safe to shoot

[Saltwater60]

I have a western arms 12 gauge double barreled side by side that's in fair condition. No rust or any pitting. I am wondering from those in the know is it safe to shoot for bird and rabbit hunting. I would not use slugs. It was given To my grandpa then passed to me. I have used it in the past for clay bird shooting then a local gun seller told me not to shoot it because it was not safe. He was a corner gun seller that honestly cared more about talking with his friends than selling guns. I was young when I was told this it just stuck with me. I see nothing of concern. What should I look for? Thanks.

 

[carpediem]

Does it have Damascus barrels?

 

[Jmac00]

I have a western arms 12 gauge double barreled side by side that's in fair condition. No rust or any pitting. I am wondering from those in the know is it safe to shoot for bird and rabbit hunting. I would not use slugs. It was given To my grandpa then passed to me. I have used it in the past for clay bird shooting then a local gun seller told me not to shoot it because it was not safe. He was a corner gun seller that honestly cared more about talking with his friends than selling guns. I was young when I was told this it just stuck with me. I see nothing of concern. What should I look for? Thanks.

why not take it to a competent gunsmith? I know a guy with a 1936 Ithaca 16ga, it looks like it came out of the box, yesterday. He shoots that almost everyday.

 

[Saltwater60]

Does it have Damascus barrels?

No it's not like that. I think it's regular steel.

I figured you'd say take it to a gun smith. I probably will do that. I was looking to see what type of steel the barrel was. It's a neat old gun. The forearm is a modern replacement, but all other components are original and in good shape. I'd love to find and original fire arm. The serial number matches and is a very early serial number.

 

[BerettaGuy]

Yes, It is a "Damascus" barrel. Do not shoot modern shells through it. Target or club loads may be okay but I wouldn't do it.
Black Powder shells only.
It will definitely look good hanging over a fireplace though.
Does it have hammers?
You got yourself a Parker Brothers brother.

 

[Darth]

Dental floss + distance = your answer.

 

[kev74]

if its regular steel barrels and the action isn't loose, it should be fine.

 

[Jmac00]

Dental floss + distance = your answer.

WTF does that mean???

 

[Gunner57]

WTF does that mean???

Remote trigger

 

[Greywolf224]

WTF does that mean???

Thinking wedge the gun between two rocks and tie a string to the trigger and pulll. But then again what do I know!

 

[Saltwater60]

I used to shoot trap with it and I think I took it in one day to try to get a new forearm or something or to get some info and the guy said don't shoot it. It does not have hammers it has firing pins.

If I can't shoot it I will hang it above my fire place and when my grandmas pass I will attempt to get my grandpas veterans flags and place them on either side of it. Here's my fire place.

 

[carpediem]

Remote trigger

String and two tires is how I tested my $35 Moisin, got two rounds out and then had to beat the bolt open with a block of wood and a hammer. It hangs in my garage now.
Probably should take it to a good gunsmith to be sure the barrels are safe. The family connection makes it priceless even if you can't shoot it.