I have this old shotgun...................

[mikeym1a]

I have an old Hopkins & Allen falling block 12ga shotgun. It is complete, it is a breakdown model, one of the later versions. It is in very good shape. Anyone have any suggestions as to loads for this old gun? I haven't shot it with any commercial loads, as I want to keep it intact. I know practically nothing about shotgun loads, other than shot size. Any kind suggestions would be greatly appreciated. :wink:

[Wells]

Hi this one is made with a cast iron rec. use black only!!!
Wells

[mikeym1a]

Hi this one is made with a cast iron rec. use black only!!!
Wells
This appears to be a milled steel receiver.

[mikeym1a]

Have you ever examined one of these guns? This is a very large receiver. The breech block behind the shell is nearly an inch thick. Not terribly strong? This is the site where shooters talk about shooting their GEW 88's, Winchester Hi-Walls, Various and sundry firearms from the 1870's - 1920's, isn't it??

[Wells]

It may be milled but still cast not real strong no heat treat brittle black only,
A smith I know made one into a 22 hornet had the recover crack !
Wells

[KCSO]

I must agree B/P pressure loads only in these. I rebuilt one for a friend and this isn't a real strong action. I have used smokless with low pressure loads but really prefer B/P or a substitute in these.

[429421Cowboy]

I would also worry that if it was shot with BP for the last time so many years ago, then not properly cleaned that corrosion could have had plenty of time to weaken some of the more important parts that keep the metal bits in one piece instead of scattered throughout your face. I would say neat wall hanger!

[Swamp Man]

Take it to a gun smith and let him check it out he could tell you what your best bet is.

[wv109323]

I would also measure chamber length. Didn't there use to be a 2 1/2" 12 gauge many moons ago?