Steel banned?

A friend told me that my Miroku MK 6000, dating from 1983, could use steel shot. I am doubtful as it doesn’t have the fleur-de-lys symbol and one barrel is ¾ fixed choke. Is my friend right or should I trade my gun in for a newer one if I want to continue using it for game shooting?

Ian says: The majority of nitro-proofed guns, provided they were proofed after 1954, should be suitable for standard steel shot. However, there are some restrictions and areas to be cautious of, such as tight chokes, thin barrel walls and loose actions that will impact whether your gun can safely shoot steel. I would advise taking your gun to an experienced gunmaker or gunsmith before you make a decision on whether to sell it.