re: Anybody else duck hunt with an old shotgun?

Glad to know I'm not the only one still enjoying the oldies.

No, bismuth will not hurt the old barrels, it's soft like lead and yes, it's expensive which is why I only shoot it in this one spot. Birds usually only come in in pairs and they're right in your face. Doesn't mean I never miss, but they're easier to hit so I generally shoot less.

My dad has a very old belgium A5 16 ga full choke that will never be for sale. It was his dad's, now his, and will be mine one day. It was the reason I bought my own 16ga that I saved up for by mowing yards. I paid $425 for it back in the early 90's and was stupid and sold it for what I thought was newer and better.

Live and learn I guess. If I ever find a good condition A5 magnum in modified or with invector barrel, I will snatch it up provided I have the funds. I have no need for 3-1/2" shells although I have two guns that can shoot them.