RST shortage, and other 2-1/2" shell sources?
 

Has anyone any information regarding RST's shortage of shell components? I'm running severely low on 2.5" 16 gauge shells for my Parker VH and am starting to wonder when or if they'll be getting more of what I need back in stock. Does anyone here have other source recommendations for Parker appropriate 16 gauge shells? I do not reload.

Wouldnt surprise me if its awhile on 16 gauge components id say it probably falls behind the 10 and 28 gauge. Reloading shotshells only requires the basic of tools most important probably being a scale. Might want to secure some 16 gauge hulls while you can though no telling when they will be back in stock. Another option is gauge adapters.

I sure hope it is not too much longer. I am not holding my breath either

Stop wondering and go up on their website. They are out of stock of almost everything due to a critical shortage of components. Call them directly and tell them what you want - they'll let you know immediately if they have it or not. "Deal Direct", as they say.

My understanding is they can't get the type of powder required to load low pressure shells. That said a phone call to them would get the most up to date info.

I don’t imagine it’s high on any powder manufacturer’s list to produce the kind of powder we need.






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Parker appropriate 16 ga shells are made by Federal, Winchester , Remington , Fiocci , Herters and RST. I just bought two cases of recently made Winchester 1 oz loads.


On another note , I just ordered and received a case of Remington STS 12 ga and a case of Federal 12ga paper hull loads.

2 1/2 dram equivalent, 1 ounce, 1200 fps 16 gauge loads, as Bruce Day says, are appropriate for fluid steel Parkers. They are hard to find these days, but not as hard to find as RST.

It is unnecessary to limit cartridge selection to 2 1/2 “ expanded shell length. We have been through that concept many times here , explained the insignificant pressure increase and real cartridge lengths. A search of previous comments here will show likely hundreds of explanations.

I use these commercially available 16 ga cartridges in a variety of guns ranging from 1880’s hammer Parkers to late Parkers , Lefevers and Brownings, Damascus , Twist and fluid steel, grades P through A .

I bought most of a case of 1 oz Winchester 16's recently. The recoil is a little stiff but they work