Mossberg New Haven .410 Model 283TB

Question
QUESTION: I'm new to hunting and am looking for a starter shotgun for small game and found this model at a pawn shop. Looks classic. How old is the gun? Is it a decent gun for hunting and practice for a novice? I like the simplicity of the bolt action for cleaning and operation. What might be the linitations? How much is it worth in decent/fairly good condition?

ANSWER: Its really only good for very small game.
Squrrels rabbits or dispatching rodents.
.410 has very small pay load. 1/2 oz.
Follow up shots are very slow.
Its extremely difficult to hit flying targets.
It was made in the 1960s.
No exact dating is possible.
Its a well made inexpensive shotgun.
Its worth $50 to $90 depending on condition.

If you want to hunt a 20 gauge or 12 gauge is a far better choose.
It is a fun toy.
I have earlier version of this gun.





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the response. Indiana allows slugs for hunting Deer. OK or not a good idea? Please recommend the shot I should use for what I'm hunting. 7.5, 6, 4, buckshot, slugs. B.t.w., I did pretty well with 7.5 shot at the range with Trap and Skeet shooting. Thanks again for your advice and expertise!

Answer
No .410 it way too small for deer even as a slug.
For deer with slugs the choke needs to Improved Cylinder or less.
http://www.gameandfishmag.com/hunting/whitetail-deer-hunting/gf_aa106701a/
Here a selection guide link.
http://www.internetarmory.com/shotgun_hunting.htm