[Sagebrush]

One problem is that there is only one companty that makes 2 3/4" steel shells, or at least that I can find in my area. They work but
have a question.

Would it be worth the exta money to have it drilled out to a 3" chamber, since 99% of the loads are 3" hulls.

 

[Woodyard]

What kind of an "old" side by side is it, how old is it and how is it choked? Most old classic fixed-choke doubles were not designed for the stresses of steel shot. I've been told it could even cause barrel separation in tightly choked guns. And boring out 2.75" chambers to 3" could lead to dangerous pressures. Get the opinion of a competent gunsmith before doing it. Frankly, if you're going to shoot steel shot, you're better off using a gun designed for it. Feed the old classics bismuth, Kent TM or something similar.

 

[Sagebrush]

Good points..........thanks

 

[pennsyltucky]

sage, what is it? how old? as long as its nitro proofed, there shouldnt be a problem making the chamber 3". the only hitch is the amount of steel directly ahead of the chamber. some older guns really taper fast, and may be a little thin. if theres enuf meat there, do the chamber with a 3" long forcing cone reamer. this will do both at the same time, and heavy loads will be easier on the gun. do you reload 20ga? that would be your best choice. 3" mags in the old light sxs's hurt. worse than my 10ga's kick. they really sting