Yes.
In all modern shells, the shot is packed in a plastic wad which keeps the shot in a tight group as it travels down the barrel. The shot never actually touches the sides of the barrel.
So long as you don't try running magnum loads thru a gun that isn't rated for them, you won't have a problem.
No.
Yes
Not recommended
Yes your Winchester model 1897 pump action shotgun can shoot buck shot through it.
I see no reason that you cannot.The steel shot sould work fine in your ranger model 120 shotgun.
Not recommended
A shotgun can shoot up to 80 yards it it depends on what the choke is on the gun.
There is a tool known as a choke gauge. It is a tapered length of metal that is placed in the bore, and measures the width of the muzzle. Or- shoot the shotgun, and determine how it patterns, Purpose of a choke is to to open or close a shot pattern- and proof is in what the gun does.
Depends on the load and what the maker of the choke/shotgun say.
Yes, but, DON'T DO IT!!!!!!!!
Not recommended.
Pellets or slugs. shotguns usually shoot shot or pellets, but you can shoot slugs. in Indiana we use a shotgun to hunt deer and use shotgun slugs, better to use a barrel with no choke in it. cylinder bore preferred.