Can a Norinco 98 shoot 3" shells?

[jwalk]

I have a Norinco 98 I picked up a couple years ago that I've only shot 2 3/4" shells in. On the barrel it says 12GA.2 3/4".3" I got to thinking that might mean it can shoot 3" ones. Does anyone know if this is true and if it would be wise to do so? I've never had any problems with it, anyone also know if Norinco's have any noteable problems?

 

[Burt Blade]

In theory, a gun marked "3-inch" should handle a 3-inch shell. However, I am not sure that the 97 action is likely to survive extended use of heavy 3-inch 12 guage loads, even if it has been proofed and stamped for them. I suspect the 97 is much like many early .357 Magnum revolvers, that wear out after extended firing of full-house .357 Magnum ammunition.

"Can" is not the same as "should".

 

[jwalk]

Thanks,
I kind of thought as much. 2 3/4 seems to work for me, just plinking every once in a while. I don't really see the need to shoot 3" anyway. Just wondered if I could.