Vulcan barrells and Shot Shells
 

The only dumb question is the one not asked. I'm looking at the RST shotshells for my VHE 12 gauge. But in looking back at previous posts they talk about the liquid steel vulcan barrells vs Damascus barrells and the pressures that they can withstand. Can you shoot a low brass modern shotshell in the Vulcan or are the pressures too great. My gut just says to shoot the RST's because even if the V barrells can take the pressure--The gun is still over 100 years old. I'd better take care of it!

I appreciate any input as to the pressures between the barrells and the pressures between RST's and modern low brass production shells.

Thanks, Tony

Tony,
The pressure is much lower in RST's then standard off the shelve shells, I think (someone will chime in here) RST's are around 7000 psi and most factory shells are around 10,000 psi. Can you shoot regular shells in a good condition (that a smith has checked out) V grade, yes but the gun is at least 70 yrs old and probably more, so why put the strain on the wood and metal. Just my thoughts on it. Also besides RST, Polywad (Vintagers) and New Era both make low pressure shells. The other nice thing is your shoulder will thank you also. Eric

Tony - Many of today's "Low Brass" shells (think promotional loads from Wally World) have surprisingly hight pressures. In order to minimize costs, the companies use small amounts of hot ,fast-burning powder that generates higher pressures. Agree that you should use purpose-built low pressure shells like RST

According to Winchester the X-tra Lite 2 3/4 dr.eq. shells with 1 oz. of shot are 8,500 psi, and I have used many similar commercial loads from Remington and Rio in both fluid and damascus barreled guns. You don't have to use RSTs. There are lots of less expensive, readily available alternatives.

Rio and Kemen 2 3/4 x 1 oz ammo runs about 7200 psi and B&P 2000 1 oz is 6600 psi

Thanks guys for your input. I appreciate all the alternatives that are available to keep the old girl in good shape. Thanks again, Tony