I would gladly shoot skeet, just for fun by the way no flaming, against anyone here and they can choose which shotgun to shoot. It is the shooter who is accurate, however, a gun can make a crappy shooter better. Good shooters can have little trouble distinguishing. Most good shooters buy a gun that fits them well in the shoulder and grip. As far as what the OP originally asked, yes you can use modern shells in your A5. I've used them in my fathers belgium made browning and they shoot fine. They do not damage the barrel either. I would however avoid steel shot. Those guns were made in the day when lead wasn't such a hazard to health so it may, I'm not an expert on those barrels, may pit the inside of the barrel. All of the others in this thread who want to thump their chest about what gun is better, prove it on the range. If you can't prove it against another here, then shut up already. I've shot many different guns and I love my Remington 870 express magnum. Smooth shooting, everytime I bring the gun up the sight is right there, and is comfortable. That is the key, COMFORTABLE! Different shooters require different feels and tastes. Benelli may be your gun, but may be a piece of crap to someone else. As can be vise versa. But I'll stick with my Remington and I'll prove it on the range anyday.