[Fatstrat]

I have an old Iver Johnson "Champion" .410 single shot. A friend of mine says that a .410 w/slugs is a good close range deer rifle w/energy approaching that of a .357 Magnum at 50-75 yrs.
My question is, is my old shotgun that is in good firing condition, strong enough to fire slugs? Does it generate more pressure than shot loads? Thanks.

 

[bbanbury]

Fatstrat - as long as your gun is in good working order, it should be o.k. Check with a qualified gunsmith to be sure. Pressure wise, slug loads are in the same range as heavy field loads...with the same and/or more kick. Also, It is probably full choke so accuracy may not be the best.

You will also want to check your state and local game laws before using 410 slug loads on deer. Most states have slug minimums...the lowest I've seen so far is a 28 ga. My state says nothing bigger than a 10 ga...and nothing smaller than a 20 ga.

 

[Fatstrat]

Thanks for the reply. I was not aware (as my friend apparently isn't) of restrictions in shotgun slug size for deer. What would .410 slugs be acceptable for (in most places)?
Also, the gun is not marked as to chamber length. There I bought 2/12" shells to be safe. Can anyone tell me what the correct size/lenght is? Thanks again.