Old Shot Gun Shells Questions

[Tex10guy]

I have 2 boxes of Winchester 20 ga. shells that we bought in around 1960. I also have 2 quart storage bags full of old .410 shells. Are they still good to fire ? Safety is a concern. If I can't shoot how do you get rid of them the proper way ?
Thanks.
Raymond

 

[halfmileharry]

I don't have any problems if they're not swollen and stick in the chamber. I don't think I'd rapid fire them off but should be safe enough to shoot in a gun in good condition.
I was wondering last night the same thing about disposal.
I was going through a box of my father's (RIP) things and ran across some old paper shells that are coming apart. I'm sure they should be disposed of but I'm not aware of proper disposal procedures either.

 

[Westside]

the paper shells can be soaked in water to render then useless. then strain and pour out.

The others I am not sure about.

 

[halfmileharry]

the paper shells can be soaked in water to render then useless. then strain and pour out.

The others I am not sure about.

I've thought about cutting open the old shells and dumping the contents.
I know I used to play around with the shells like that when I was younger.

 

[Westside]

I've thought about cutting open the old shells and dumping the contents.
I know I used to play around with the shells like that when I was younger.

That is always an option.

 

[mr_camera_man]

I'd be concerned if the .410s were reloaded, and by whom. We tossed lots of reloads when we cleaned out my grandfather's house after he passed away, because we had no idea if he loaded them before or after he started drinking.

 

[Tex10guy]

All my old shotgun shells were store bought, no reloads. I am also concerned about the shotgun that I used as a boy in 1960. My father purchased a 20 ga. Beretta Companion as my Christmas present. This was last used on a late night rabbit hunt in about 1970. On second thought I believe I will retire this gun. Thanks Dad.