I'm new here and was hoping someone would be able to help me ID an old shotgun I recently acquired. I have pictures, but am not sure how to attach them to this post. There are very few markings on it. It is stamped Hercules and Pat. Feb 10-1914 on the left side. Top of barrel is stamped Proof Tested 12 GA. There is a matching number 56585 stamped on the under side of the barrel and receiver which I assume is the serial number. On the under side of the forearm the number is 56579. I thought this may be somewhat common among these older guns.
From what I've read online, it seems it may have been manufactured by Stevens Model 215 or 225 and maybe sold by Montgomery Wards. However, I don't see either of those stamped anywhere. The other stamp I noticed is on the under side near the forearm. It appears to be 4 circles that form almost a flower shape.
I would love to hear from you if you can provide me with any information on this gun. Also, I believe that it is safe to use modern ammo in this gun, but if you have any info on that, I would love to hear from you as well.