Hard facts

Will your gun be obsolete if we move towards steel shot? Richard Atkins investigates this question

Probably the most common cause for concern with the proposed lead shot ban is: “Can I use steel shot cartridges in my gun?” First, I’d like to echo the words of the well-respected English game gun specialist dealer, Francis Lovel: “Do not panic.” Hearing of those who have assumed that their old gun is about to become redundant, a ‘wall hanger’ and all the negative things heard and read about, Francis advises against snap decisions.

So, how worried need we be? There is no single answer, because every older shotgun not proofed for use with steel shot must be properly assessed on its own merits, taking several factors into account, such as:

• Age, construction and condition

• Choke

• Barrel wall material and thickness

• Chamber length

• Is it still in proof now?

Bear in mind that older guns were made in various qualities of materials and action designs, hence their suitability for use with steel shot cartridges also varies.

The British Proof Authority (BPA) has made clear that it cannot make any recommendations for any guns bearing pre1954 proof marks due to age and potential wear, and suggest guns of this age be inspected by a reputable gundealer before contemplating use with steel shot.

However, considerable numbers of post-1954, pre-steel-shot-proof guns are in regular use and good condition. Owners of these guns can relax, because the Permanent International Commission (CIP), when framing the specifications for steel-shotproof and performance limits for steel shot cartridges, took the needs of these guns manufactured into account.