When these loads were available, of course 3 1/2" ten gauge guns were used with these loads, but there were heavy 2 7/8" guns available with fluid steel barrels from Ithaca, Parker, L.C. Smith, Francotte, and other European and British makers. Until a few years before the 1 5/8 ounce tens were discontinued, 1 1/4 ounce loads were available. When these two loads were discontinued, there was no factory load suitable for non-magnum ten gauge guns. The gun show business in old 1 5/8 ounce ten gauge loads is still very brisk and there doesn't seem to be any sign that they will run out soon.
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