I have recently acquired an Ithaca NID Mag 10. The previous owner had Briley chokes installed. It came with a set of lead choke tubes and a set of steel choke tubes. I am not thrilled with the idea of shooting steel through this gun, although the prior owner had done so. Not a lot of steel, but some. I am getting a set of chamber inserts (GaugeMate gold 10 to 12 XL) so as to permit me to use 12 gauge ammo on occasion.
What are the thoughts and opinions on using 12 gauge Hevi-Shot and some of the other super tungsten alloys utilizing the inserts in this gun. Would the extra bore diameter help prevent or reduce the chance for scoring and other issues which arise with the use of these very hard shot in older guns?
I see two questions presented: (i) what are the chances of damage to the barrels; and (ii) are the any issues (such as excessive pressure) arising from using these "modern" loads. I am not deeply concerned about the pressure issues given the robust nature of this action, but I am concerned about barrel damages.
