Chamber length question

[Frank Wilson]

I recently acquired a 1903 16 ga V grade 0 frame from a gun show. The elderly gentleman I bought it from said the chambers were 2 3/4 when I asked. Seems like I've read that most pre WW II doubles were 2 1/2". Should I take the old timer's word for it or order 2 1/2 RSTs to be safe? Will a research letter specify the factory chamber length? Is it ok or even better to shoot the low pressure 2 1/2" shells even if the chambers have been lengthened to 2 3/4"? Thanks for any thoughts!

[Rick Losey]

A 1903 gun with original wood might be better off with low recoil loads no matter what the chambers are

But if you would like to know for a fact - the best way is to get them measured

[Chuck Bishop]

It's rare that the books will give you chamber lengths. It happens but not that often.

[charlie cleveland]

frank...these old parkers were made to shoot stout loads but since the wood is a hundred years old or better its best to stay with lower pressure shells..but the stock can be fixed to where it will hold up to factory ammo with no problems...such as have the stock glassed and there are other methods....that rst ammo is top notch though....charlie

[Frank Wilson]

Thanks for the info Charlie. Definitely think I'll go ahead and stock up on the RSTs.