John, sounds like a very nice "elsie". The O stands for Hunter Selective One Trigger, and the E stands for ejector. From what you are stating about the engraving it possibly is a No. 1 grade. About the crack, if it is superfisal, like most are, just use very light loads that Revdocdrew suggested. Also if there is a Cabela's near you they carry Gamebore Traditional shells, made in England, that are low pressure, they are only 2 1/2" long, but that won't hurt at all. If you shoot a lot of skeet I definitely would shoot only what Rev said. Or better yet use something else and leave the wear and tear off the "elsie". Hope you will join and become a member of the L.C. Smith Collectors Association. Wonderful bunch of guys and a boat load of information.