Yes.
In all modern shells, the shot is packed in a plastic wad which keeps the shot in a tight group as it travels down the barrel. The shot never actually touches the sides of the barrel.
So long as you don't try running magnum loads thru a gun that isn't rated for them, you won't have a problem.
No.
Yes
Not recommended
I see no reason that you cannot.The steel shot sould work fine in your ranger model 120 shotgun.
Yes your Winchester model 1897 pump action shotgun can shoot buck shot through it.
Not recommended
A shotgun can shoot up to 80 yards it it depends on what the choke is on the gun.
There is a tool known as a choke gauge. It is a tapered length of metal that is placed in the bore, and measures the width of the muzzle. Or- shoot the shotgun, and determine how it patterns, Purpose of a choke is to to open or close a shot pattern- and proof is in what the gun does.
Depends on the load and what the maker of the choke/shotgun say.
Yes, but, DON'T DO IT!!!!!!!!
Not recommended.
Pellets or slugs. shotguns usually shoot shot or pellets, but you can shoot slugs. in Indiana we use a shotgun to hunt deer and use shotgun slugs, better to use a barrel with no choke in it. cylinder bore preferred.