Other Shell Lengths
Have you ever heard of a shotshell shorter than 2-3/4 inches? They do indeed exist. Most common are 2 inch and 2-1/2 inch shell lengths, but there are others too. They are mostly found in Europe, but are encountered in the USA on occasion. The short shell lengths apply to all gauges.
Most shotguns with these short chambers are fine old English and European doubles. These shotguns are built to lower pressure specifications and have lighter frames, and should under no circumstances ever be rechambered for longer shotshells. The magic of these shotguns was their light weight and lower powered shells, which made them a dream to carry on a walk in the field with the dog, and to take the occasional bird. Under no circumstances should anyone ever shoot steel or tungsten type shot in one of these old shotguns. These shots are harder than lead, and they are certainly harder than the barrel steel used in the thin barrels of fine older shotguns.
If you own one of these interesting shotguns, then you know how aggravatingly difficult it is to find ammo for it. Stars and Stripes Ammunition will make any non-standard shotshell length upon request. These shells are available in shot, buck, and slugs. Don’t shelve that perfectly good shotgun! Call us up, then you can take it out and use it. Lead shot restrictions have literally ended the usage of these shotguns due to the lack of suitable non-toxic shot in the short shells that are commercially available. With the emergence of Bismuth shot, one can safely use their old short chambered double where lead shot restrictions are in force.