One of the first things I read when I discovered this Site some years ago was Cmdr. Roy Gunther's article "Is It Safe To Shoot?" in the 'other useful information' section. What he said to the effect that he wouldn't personally shoot any gun built before World War 2 has always stayed with me.
I am satisfied that you can shoot our old guns safely enough, and I do, regularly, but only with low-pressure shells, and after lots of inspection and consideration of the individual gun as a whole and the barrels especially. As a group, I believe the members of this forum provide some very well thought-out, reasoned, educated and relevant information to each other and to the Public.
I say enjoy collecting the old guns and use them if YOU believe they'll stand up to it. Get professional advice on condition if you aren't sure about that. But only use them appropriately and with full respect for their century old wood, battle scars, and metal parts that are inferior to modern materials...Geo
