[Alpo]

the 44 is a 44 shot shell and NOT a 44-40 or any other 44 caliber cartridge.

Yeah, pay attention to what he said. The 44 extra long shotshell eventually became the 410 shot shell.

 

[Alpo]

not the usable small game / bird gun I wanted.

Why not? Just because it's a hundred years old? I have guns that were made in the teens that I routinely shoot. I have a hunting rifle that was made in 1895. I hunt with another one that was made in 1898.

There's no reason to consign it to the wall just because it's old. It's chambered in two and a half inch shells. Two and a half inch shells are readily available. Shoot it and enjoy it.

 

[Alpo]

If you want brass shells for your 410, simply buy the magtech two and a half inch brass 410 shells. No need to try to cobble something up using 454, or 30/40 krag, or 303 Brit. The stuff exists.