Remington 1894 Damascus Barrel w/ Smokeless

[HaleyC]

Hello all,

I have recently inherited a Remington 1894 in 12 gauge that has Damascus Barrels, and I have always heard that one cannot use smokeless powder through these types of shotguns. However, is this true? I have seen adverisments from the late 1890s and 1900s saying that these shotguns were proofed for nitro (otherwise known as smokeless).

Additionally, do any of you know where I can buy commerically safe ammo for this shotgun? I do not reload and am unsure of whether or not I should fire this shotgun at all, as I have other shotguns that I prefer, but I would like to try to use this shotgun at least once.

Thanks for any help.

[cthraen]

Provided the Remington is in sound condition you can use modern powder shotshells designed for older guns in the SxS. RST is a commercial firm that makes low psi ammo for older guns. Many 1894 owners reload low psi ammo. Good condition damascus barrels are safe with modern smokeless powder. I shoot my AE regularly with 7/8 oz, 1145 fps reloads.