I've been shooting a restored 12 gauge REMINGTON 1900 with Damascus barrels. I load low pressure 1 oz. handloads in the 5,000 psi range using IMR 7625 powder. Seems to work fine.

Also shoot a restored 1890's LC SMITH hammerless with twist barrels using the same load. The previous owner used regular factory
1-1/4 oz. loads in it regularly, to hunt squirrels.

Another fellow at the range shoots an old hammer Elsie, using a light load of PB powder.

I don't think I'm taking any undue risk, with these moderate loads.
JERRY