JC Higgins Model 20 question about Steel loads?

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Drewhall19841

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Hey Guys,

Just recently I've inherited my grandfathers 50 year old JC Higgins Model 20, 12 gauge. It's in great shape and has barely been fired.
On the barrel it says (Proof Tested - 12 gauge - Full- 2 3/4" Chamber)
Obviously there is no choke in it.

My question is, can I shoot steel loads through it for geese and ducks? My guess is no due to age and a full choke, however I thought I would pose the question on here to make sure. I'm sure somebody knows the answer to this and can help me out.

I would love to be able to say I used granddads gun in order to hunt waterfowl however I have a few other shotguns that can be used for waterfowl if not.

Much thanks in advance, and happy hunting.

Drew
 
If it is a true full choke then no steel is not a good idea. Now that said a lot of people will shot small steel shot threw the old full choke guns.say number 6 and smaller.before I try this is would be sure to look the barrel over very well. You could have the choke reamed open to mod or improved by a smith. That would be your best bet if you were to want to hunt with it.
 
I have my Dad's JCHiggins Model 20 Skeet with a vent rib and vented choke that's in beautiful condition. It's still the best upland gun I own,built in 1958 by High Standard for Sears. The steel used in the barrels at that time was state-of-the-art,engineered with an eye for "down the road" changes in shot design and improved ballistics,but,even the most astute engineers couldn't foresee the rise in the environmentalism movement that has,rightly or wrongly, driven the steel shot agenda. AFAIK,no studies have ever been done to test these barrels with steel shot. Until there's definitive information,I wouldn't risk wrecking a great gun,so,I only use lead Upland or Bismuth shot for waterfowl.
 
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