Steel shot from standard barrel

[Hoser99]

I know this has probably been played out years ago but... I have an older 870 with a 30" barrel and full choke. I have been told that I can get the barrel reamed to modified choke and shoot steel shot. Is this true?

 

[Grizzlypeg]

Heard that too. They modify the forcing cone area as well. Its a toss up as to whether its worth it, or just as wise to buy a new or used appropriate barrel. It would be good if you could get it done at a reasonable price.

 

[tjhaile]

Yes, opening up the full choke to modified will allow you to shoot steel shot. You should be able to have this done for less than the cost of a new barrel.

 

[JohnC]

How about screw in chokes? I'm told these are a no-no even if cylinder ot modified

 

[tjhaile]

If the barrel has enough wall thickness, you can have it fitted for choke tubes. You do need to make sure the choke tube is compatible with steel. Typically, full and extra-full chokes are lead-only.

http://www.briley.com/2009/chokefaq.html

 

[Mike Oxbig]

Screw in chokes are fine. Just make sure they are good for steel.
I've accidentally shot mine for a whole morning at ducks using a full choke left in from turkey with 3-1/2" loads w/steel shot.(some BBB at goose too) I nearly crapped when i realized my error but the gun and choke are both fine.

 

[MD]

I've got a 1957 870 and a 1964 Browning A5 with the chokes opened up to modified.

Browning does not recommend shooting steel shot with Belgian barrels. I do anyway, but nothing bigger than #2 shot.

My choke job cost $40.00 on the 870 if I remember right.