Hi, can't add much to add to what Mike and George have said. They pretty much hit the nail on the head. I would like to add that be careful when getting a 2 1/2" chamber gun. It may be marked 2 1/2", but in the past someone may have let the chambers out to 2 3/4" and not submitted the gun for reproofing. I would check this first off. If the chambers have been let out the gun is out of proof. In the UK the gun can not be resold, but over here it's a moot point.
If the gun has been let out, you can bet that they shot modern American loads in them. The bbls and action can more than likely take the stress, but not the stock.
I'd take the gun to a good smith (or yourself) and pull the stock to see what damage that may or may not be there. Then I'd go from there.
I have 4 Brit guns and just love them. I shoot only low pressure loads in them (mostly RST, but also New Era). Never had one problem with them. They do kill birds dead.
Anyway, Good Luck!!!
All the best!
Greg
