J Stevens 5100
- Thread starter texbow
- Start date
Seems to lock up tight - it either does or it doesn't. It SHOULD say somewhere on the barrels what size shell - typically 2-3/4". Look for any cracks, etc. that might indicate a weak area or a need for repair. You can buy low pressure loads from RST if you are worried. I would probably start with light target loads. It might need a good cleaning and some lubrication first, though.
Workingmans double
As long as it looks up tight and has fluid steel barrels it should be fine with any load that it is chambered for.
If in doubt bring it to a smith for an inspection.
I call this gun the workingmans double. Cheap to buy, handles like a pig on a shovel. If I were to guess the used double shotgun most often encountered, the Stevens doubles would be my candidate.
As long as it looks up tight and has fluid steel barrels it should be fine with any load that it is chambered for.
If in doubt bring it to a smith for an inspection.
I call this gun the workingmans double. Cheap to buy, handles like a pig on a shovel. If I were to guess the used double shotgun most often encountered, the Stevens doubles would be my candidate.
Tex, the most likely problem that you will see in this old gun will be in the wood. The weak point is in the tang area. Those stocks weren't made with the highest quality wood to begin with and decades of drying out can leave it brittle. Keep close eye on the tang/grip area for cracks/splits and if you see one, get it pinned and glued before it spreads.
