Since the Remington 1900 was advertised as being able to handle smokeless powder when it was new can it still use today's smokeless ammunition?

Answer 1

It SHOULD be able to handle a modern shell, however, it has had a century to deterioriate so if it has not had regular care and cleaning it may not be safe, particularly if it has damascus barrels. I'm not sure if damascus was an option on the Model 1900, but it was offered on other doubles Remington was still offering at the time. Have a competent gunsmith check out any older firearm before you fire it and be sure he measures the chambers to be sure it can use 2 3/4 inch shells and is not chambered for 2 9/16. If the 'smith approves the gun's condition, don't use any magnum shells or steel shot. PS. If this gun is highly engraved, don't shoot it, take it to an experienced Remington collector or dealer for an appraisal. I have a 1900 that I restored. The barrels were lightly pitted inside. Had them polished and then had thin wall choke tubes installed as I was not concerned with collectors value. It is simply a great handling field gun.The 1900 was offered in both Damascus and Steel barrel versions. The laminated steel/Damascus is meant ONLY FOR BLACK POWDER LOADS....PERIOD. NEVER use SMOKELESS POWDER SHOT SHELLS IN DAMASCUS BARRELED SHOTGUNS.....EVER!!!!!!you will wind up in a bad state of affairs as soon as you pull the trigger.As the other gentleman suggested...have it checked out by a COMPETENT gunsmith familiar with such arms as this.Preferably, someone who specializes in restoration of this type of shotgun. I took the process slow and easy, it now looks as good or better than when it left the factory and shoots like a dream.You have a great shotgun made by a great company...treat it well and it will last another hundred years...I use modern Remington field loads in mine.