Hello fellow enthusiasts, I am new to this. Just received from family 9 Winchester rifles Models 1873-1894.
Various calibers. Mfg between 1882 and 1907.
I was told you cannot fire current smokeless ammo unless rifle was mfg 1900 or after. Is that true?
I want to be very careful. Thank you so much. Bert

Welcome to the Winchester Owners Forum Bert !!

To answer your question...it depends on the firearm, not the date of manufacture. Mostly all firearm barrels have the caliber / powder type etched on their barrels. It will be obvious if it is a breach or muzzle loaded firearm...

If you still can't figure it out...post clear pictures of each firearm barrel and I'll check it out for you...