B&P 2 1/2" "High Pheasant":

[Bruce B.]

Hello, In anticipation of the repair and return of my 1896 vintage 12 bore "GH" from Grand Rapids, I recently placed an order for a flat of Baschieri & Pellagri USA "High Pheasant" in 2 1/2 inch 1oz. 1160 fps/6530 PSI. I have noted the high praise for the "RST" loads on this forum, though there has been minimal mention of the B&P brand. My immediate reasoning for this choice was price ($82.95 - delivered) and being plastic perhaps I could reload them. These loads employ the "Gordon System", a shock absorbing technology built into the base of the hull. I'm wondering if any members have had any experience with these. Thank you kindly for you responses. Bruce

[Todd K.]

Bruce, I've only used RST ammo but I'd be interested in how you like the B&P shells. Let us know what you think once you try them.

[George M. Purtill Member #28]

I have seen these empties quite regularly at Vintagers events. They look like a well made hull.
I have shot B&P full length shells and find them excellent in 12 gauge. they are quite popular with serious sporting clays shooters I have met.

[C.O.B.]

I have used the B&P 2.5 inch 12ga with the light load of 7/8th oz of shot to shoot out of an English hammergun. There is no recoil and they burn relateively clean. I have never attempted to reload them.

[Bruce B.]

The B&P 12 Gauge "High Pheasant" Box states: "Warning Do not fire these shells in guns having Damascus other twist steel barrels or chambers shorter than shell length". The B&P website states these shells are recommended for "English-type firearms with 2 1/2-in. chambers" and also "High Pheasant 2 1/2 inch 1oz 1160 fps/6530 PSI". I wrongly assumed these shells were safe for my 1896 Parker GH Damascus shotgun. I apologize to the membership for starting a thread about a shot shell that is not recommended for Damascus or twist barrels. I did not know about the warning until taking delivery this evening. Upon reading the warning on the individual box's labels I felt it necessary to immediately inform the membership of my discovery. Bruce

[Mills]

I believe RST has the same warning and I think it is "wink wink, nod nod" I am not one to tell you to ignore manufacturer warnings though.

[OH Osthaus]

These were the shells handed out with registration for the hammer gun event at the vintagers one of the years it was held in Millbrook, where most of the guns were likely damacus.

[Double Lab]

Bruce;
At 1160fps/6530psi I would'nt hesitate to shoot them in any of my damascus guns. If your GH is in good, sound condition then you should be ok. Have it checked by a qualified gunsmith. You can also send your gun to me and I will give it a thorough 10yr test to check it's condition.

[Bruce B.]

Double Lab, "...a thorough 10yr test..." That right there is funny. How much would you charge me to conduct the 10 year test?

[Double Lab]

Bruce;
If you became a PGCA member it would be free to you. This is just another great benefit of becoming a member. Of course you would have to supply the ammo.