Gentlemen:
I am seeking advice and direction regarding the appropriate loading for a vintage (1914) L.C. Smith SxS 12 gauge of the Feather Weight variety.
I am aware that Winchester produces under their "Super-X" brand a 12 gauge load which they recommend for Pheasant hunting. The specs. are 12 Ga., 2 3/4" length, 3 1/4 Dram Equi.(powder), and 1 1/4 ounce of No.5 lead shot. This shotshell is Winchester Product Code No. X12P5.
On their web site they publish the velocity at 1220 f.p.s. What concerns me are the words; "Lead Shot Heavy Field Loads" which appears on their packaging for Product Code No. X12P5.
Would this particular loading of 3 1/4 Drams Equ. be pushing the envelope for these fine, (almost) 100 year old shotguns, and thus be shortening their life span? If so, would you care to recommend an alternative load that would be acceptable for field hunting the Pheasant?
Thank you
