Hey, I've got one of those!
I can't say I have been using mine my whole life, as I just got it this year. But, I've had several different versions of this gun, and, like the old timers like to point out, they go "Boom" when you pull the trigger.
Good points made by the others, I have made the mistake of not bringing enough ammunition when I brought a 16 gauge to South Dakota. I did bring an extra 12 along, and plenty for that gun, so, all was not lost. I wouldn't put a bunch of money into a Nitro because they aren't worth much, but, if you can get it running for slim coin, it might make a handy everyday gun, and be a good addition to whatever other guns you have in the safe.
You get a lot for your money with a Nitro, if it hasn't lead a really hard existance. The later 2 3/4" marked guns can be fed just about anything, if they came with open chokes. The original chokes are marked on the flats of the barrels, mine are 0 and 2, or, cylinder and modified. The front trigger is not solidly mounted and will "articulate", so you don't get a bruise when you pull the back trigger and the gun recoils. The design uses coil springs, and doesn't require frequent maintenance. Perfect guns to leave in a case behind the seat in the truck, and stomp the little WMA you drive past on the way home from work, looking for a rooster or two.
Most look like they were rode hard, and put away wet. Because, they were. And, the great majority of those guns will still be working. I think mine was purchased, put away in a closet, and just forgotten about for 60 years or so, and, with 26" barrels, it is a remarkably good handling gun considering what it is, a totally entry level, low grade shooter. Our own Ken61 reblued the rusty barrels, and I suppose it will be good for another 100 years or so of pleasant use.
Check Numrich Arms for the missing parts, I haven't had any luck with them for parts I've needed, but, they do have pretty clear illustrated breakdowns of guns on their site. Welcome aboard, and hopefully this isn't your last good double.
Best,
Ted
