October 2008

Last summer, we bought some Winchester© shotshells in both 12 and 20 gauge in, 2¾”, #8 shot. They were a bargain at Wal-Mart, so why not? We got 250 rounds of 12 gauge and 20 gauge. They were packaged as Winchester “Universal” loads.

When we finally took them to the range and started using them for target practice, both gauges gave us problems with jamming in the barrel, misfeeding, failing to eject and generally a nuisance to deal with at the range. We used all three of our Remington 870s and experienced the same problems with each.

Image right: the fine print – click to enlarge.

This was printed on the box:

Universal loads are a great value, ideal for dove, quail, grouse and recreational target shooting.
…
Try Universal ammunition for fun and practice. Then, when you’re ready to do some serious hunting or target shooting, pick up a box of Winchester Super-X®, Supreme® or our famous AA® Target Loads.

Let me see . . . “When you’re ready … serious …” – get some real ammo?

I did some research and found that in the forums here and there, shooters out there had the same problems. No more “universal” for us. No fun shooting with so many mishaps.

Remington and Estate game loads (number 7, 7½ or 8 shot) have seldom, if ever, given us problems.