[janikphoto]

just because the cartridge is still available, doesn't mean it's safe to use. Modern cartridges often use more powerful powder, and can pack a much bigger punch than 100 year old ammo.

This doesn't mean you can't shoot the firearm. It just means you need to be careful. You need to have a good gunsmith check it out, and you need to have a trusted reloader make up some gentle ammo for it.

 

[janikphoto]

This could end up being an expensive proposition but ending up with a shootable tie to your ancestors may be worth it.

It might be worth it to shoot once or twice with dad and then store it away again. The sentimental idea of using something that your ancestors used could be worth the expense of doing it once or twice, but weekly use would start to get expensive.

Really old/odd loads can run a couple bucks a shot or more, and I remember reading a story in Shotgun news about a REALLY rare cartridge costing the shooter something like $20 a round (extensive custom work just to make the brass casing). I doubt you'd have to spend that much, but still, a dollar or two per round can add up fast.

If I was spending a ton on ammo, I'd prefer to be spending it on a barrett .50 cal, but that's just my opinion...