I have an old Beretta a303 20 gauge and the barrel states 2 3/4" shells only, is it possible to have it opened up to shoot 3" shells? I really like the gun, but some areas I hunt are Steel Shot only and it is tough to find 20 gauge steel shot in the shot size I want in 2 3/4". I know I could ask a gunsmith, but I was curious if anyone here knew for certain or had done it.
Can you open up the chamber of a 2 3/4" shotgun to shoot 3" shells?
- Thread starter RutCrazed
- Start date
Tomahawker
Well-known member
Yes a gunsmith can lengthen the chamber. Many older English guns had 2.5 inch chamber and been lengthened to 2.75
benelli-banger
Well-known member
Double guns and auto’s may be different that way…or not?
LC Smith
Well-known member
If it was an English gun, it should be sent to the Proof House for reproofing.
John Singer
Well-known member
It is probably more complicated than a simple SxS or over/under for two reasons.
1. The receiver must allow for the ejection of a longer hull.
2. Many Beretta's have chrome lined chambers and barrels. A special ream may be required.
1. The receiver must allow for the ejection of a longer hull.
2. Many Beretta's have chrome lined chambers and barrels. A special ream may be required.
Goosemaster
Well-known member
No
benelli-banger
Well-known member
Maybe save the $ from the gunsmith and buy some 2 3/4”hevi shot?
Thanks for the input, I did not consider that. I have reached out to a gunsmith
benelli-banger
Well-known member
I checked, hevi shot has lots of non toxic options in 2 3/4”
I have had a tough time finding them in store. Bass Pro, Cabelas, Roger’s, Walmart etc… are very limited in upland shot sizes
benelli-banger
Well-known member
I was on the hevi shot website