Stevens Model 240

Question
What type of ammunition can I use in a Stevens Model 240 .410? I am worried because it is an older gun and that the modern steel shot may damage the barrel. I have the original Lead shot rounds but would prefer not to use them. Any suggestions?

Answer
Hello Nancy. It really depends on how devoted you are to the non-use of lead shot. There are several types of shot available, although you might need to re-load some of these. Here is a list of non-lead shot I am familiar with. Steel; Tungsten-Nickel-Iron; Bismuth-Tin; Tungsten-Polymer. Kent Ammunition Co. sells the tungsten-polymer ammo under the name Tungsten Matrix and Federal Ammunitions sells it under the name Tungsten-Polymer 'The Lead Equivalent'. Any of these(other than steel) are less harmful on the barrels of pre-1988 manufactured shotguns. Take some time to find sources for these type shot and go for it. I will warn you,though, any of these non-lead substitutes will be priced at a very much greater price than lead. I hope I have helped answered your question and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage