I'm a little confused by your post. The Model 24C "Campers Companion" was introduced in 1973 and was only offered in .22LR over 20ga, so you couldn't possibly have one that was made in 1953.
I only have catalogs back through 1961 so I can't reference any further back than that, but the original Stevens 22-410 (predecessor to the Model 24) was made from 1938-1950 and as the name implies it was only offered in 22LR over .410ga. The Savage Model 24 replaced it in 1950, basically the same design just rebranded. The 22WMR chambering for the rifle barrel was added in 1960 best I can gather.
You don't specify what your barrels are chambered for so it's a little hard to answer your questions. All .410 barrels were always full choke from the factory.
The 20ga option was added in 1962 with the Model 24DL and 24MDL "Deluxe" models (M signifying 22 Magnum). All 20-gauge barrels were Full choke from the factory, except on the Model 24C - they came with a Cylinder Choke.
12ga wasn't available on a Model 24 until 1989 when Savage released the new synthetic stocked Model 24F models. 12-gauge models were the only ones ever offered with choke tubes. From 1989-1990 the Model 24F-12 came with a modified tube and the Model 24F-12T came with an Full choke tube. Starting in 1991 both models came with three choke tubes (IC, Mod & Full).
Shooter Foster-type rifled lead slugs (aka pumpkin balls) through a full choke isn't going to hurt anything.
As for whether you could add a screw-in choke tube, you would need to call Briley Choke Tubes (www.brikey.com) and talk with them. They will likely want to know the outside diameter of the barrel at the muzzle as well as the inside (bore) diameter, so have those measurements ready when you call. They have some thin wall choke tubes they use to retrofit older fixed-choke guns, so they would be your best bet.
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