In the days of black powder the rule of thumb was a square load. If I remember correctly, whatever the volume of powder one would use the same volume of shot and the over powder card and wads would equal the hight of the powder or shot. You might try an over powder card and wad combination to equal the volume of shot in the 8 gauge brass case.

I have shot black powder in my old Parkers and they preformed wonderfully. You might give it a try, but have a dog or a spotter with you as you can't always duck the smoke to see the bird hit the ground.

I started loading my 10 gauge with BP and had them same issue with not filling up the shell. It didn't affect the loads ability to send the shot down range but like Paul said it does make sealing a little harder. When I put 2 half inch fiber wads on top of the over powder wad I did get a perceived increase in pressure AND it tightened up my pattern considerably. I submitted an article about all to the Parker Pages so it may get published. I am a fan of shooting BP. Good luck

I would like to try some brass shells and black powder in my grade 2 10ga but i Bulk at the cost of the brass cases. You could try some close cell foam on top of the shot charge. You will get a little snow when you pull the trigger.

Wayne, good brass cases are a good value. They should last for years with reasonable good care. I would suggest getting a few from TOW if you are interested. They are made by one of our members and based on Parker chambers.

Oh it WILL get published Mike, in the Fall 2015 Issue.
I read it and edited it (you won't even notice) and selected and cropped some of your pictures to accompany your article. Very nicely and thoroughly written Mike - Thanks!

By invitation I'll be exhibiting and demonstrating some of my Parkers at a local gun club and one of the guns I'll be letting a few folks shoot is my 10 ga. Grade-3 lifter with some of Frank Cronin's handloads :eek: (Thank you Frank) and I wonder if I might have your permission to print off a few copies of your article for the very few folks who would like it for reference?
We can very easily copyright it.

Sorry Dean, but I just saw this. You may do whatever you think is best with the article. Your editing and work on the photos greatly enhanced the article. Thank you for that.