NO. However, they can produce a VERY dangerous situation. The 20 gauge shell is small enough to slip into the BARREL of a 12 g, blocking the barrel. When a 12 g shell is fired, it will damage the gun, with a strong likelihood of injuring the shooter, and anyone nearby. This was the reason that most makers of shotshells began making 20 g shells with YELLOW cases, to prevent their being mistaken for 12 or 16 g shells.
Yes, it should fit.
20ga, 12ga, 10ga and if you were poor a 410.
You are correct with the year = 1974 was the year made. The BSS came out in 1971 in 12ga, and 1972 in 20ga. The "A" character is for all 12ga guns. A "B" character is on all 20ga guns.
9
If you have a 500, and it is a 12 gauge, it is a 500A. The "A" designates it as a 12ga. A 500B is a 16ga, a C is a 20ga, and an E is a .410.
I have a pair of these 20ga and 12 ga and the research that I did put the 12ga at right around $600.
The Light will only accept and shoot 2 3/4" shells. The Magnum will shoot up to 3" 20ga shells.
The .410 brings more than the 12ga or 20ga, but still tops out at $100-$125 if in excellent condition. sales@countrygunsmith.net
The Ithaca model 66 single shot shotgun that was made from 1963-1978 was offered in 12ga,20ga and 410 gauge only.
20ga brings more than 12ga or 16ga, so figure $250-$300. sales@countrygunsmith.net
Check to see if the rubber o-ring is broke.Maybe take it apart and clean it really good with brake cleaner and oil it lightly.
Generally if unfired in the DU case, they go for $1500-$1800 for the 12ga. The 20ga sells better and the 16ga, is usually over $2000