As a long-time hunter, shooting sports enthusiast, and outdoor industry writer, I’ve seen ammunition availability fluctuate wildly over the past few years. Lately, the questions I get most often revolve around Remington shotgun shells and the broader state of Remington ammunition. From concerns about when did Remington go bad, to the frustrating search for 35 Remington ammo, and the fallout from the optics and ammo lawsuit, it’s a complex situation. This article aims to provide a clear, up-to-date overview for fellow shooters, outdoor professionals, and anyone relying on reliable ammunition.
Remington, a name synonymous with American firearms for over 200 years, has faced significant challenges in recent times. The company’s struggles weren’t sudden; they were a culmination of factors including declining sales, manufacturing inefficiencies, and a series of unfortunate events. Many ask, when did Remington go bad? While pinpointing a single moment is difficult, the period following the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting proved particularly damaging to the brand’s reputation and financial stability. Increased scrutiny and boycotts impacted sales, and the company struggled to adapt to changing market conditions.
In 2018, Remington Outdoor Company filed for bankruptcy. This first bankruptcy was followed by another in 2020, largely due to mounting debt and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on supply chains. The company was eventually sold to several groups, with the ammunition business being acquired by Vista Outdoor in September 2023. This acquisition has brought a degree of stability, but the legacy of the past few years continues to affect availability and consumer perception.
Vista Outdoor, a major player in the outdoor sports industry (owning brands like Bushnell, CamelBak, and Savage Arms), has invested heavily in modernizing Remington’s manufacturing processes. They’ve stated their commitment to restoring Remington’s reputation for quality and reliability. However, it’s important to remember that rebuilding trust takes time. The initial focus has been on streamlining production and addressing backlogs, which directly impacts the availability of popular Remington shotgun shells and other calibers.
The ammunition market remains dynamic. While the panic buying of 2020-2021 has subsided, certain calibers and loads are still difficult to find. The availability of Remington ammunition, in particular, is a mixed bag. Common shotgun gauges (12 gauge, 20 gauge) and popular rifle cartridges (like .223/5.56) are becoming more readily available, but specialized loads and less common calibers remain scarce.
One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is about the difficulty in finding 35 Remington ammo. This caliber, popular among hunters for its effectiveness on deer and black bear, has been consistently hard to find for several years. Several factors contribute to this shortage. Firstly, the 35 Remington isn’t a high-volume cartridge compared to more mainstream options. Secondly, Remington’s production issues exacerbated the problem, creating a significant backlog. While Vista Outdoor is working to increase production, it will take time to meet the demand. Shooters are often advised to explore alternative brands like Federal or Hornady when 35 Remington is unavailable. REI Expert Advice offers helpful tips on finding ammunition when supplies are limited.
Here’s a quick overview of the current availability of some popular Remington products (as of late 2023/early 2024 – availability changes rapidly):
| Cartridge/Shell | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Remington 12 Gauge Shells (various loads) | Moderate to Good | Common loads like target and hunting shells are generally available. |
| Remington 20 Gauge Shells | Moderate | Slightly less common than 12 gauge, but generally findable. |
| .223/5.56 Remington | Good | Production has ramped up significantly. |
| .30-06 Springfield | Moderate | Still some supply chain issues, but improving. |
| 35 Remington | Limited | Continues to be difficult to find; consider alternatives. |
| Remington Accutip | Variable | See section below on the Accutip shortage. |
The Remington Accutip shortage has been a source of frustration for many hunters. The Accutip, known for its accuracy and terminal performance, has been intermittently unavailable. The reasons are multifaceted. Production disruptions during Remington’s bankruptcy proceedings significantly impacted Accutip output. Furthermore, the specialized polymer tip used in the Accutip is sourced from a limited number of suppliers, creating a potential bottleneck. Vista Outdoor is reportedly working to secure alternative suppliers and increase Accutip production, but it’s a slow process. The USDA Forest Service often publishes hunting reports that can indicate regional ammunition demand.
The optics and ammo lawsuit, filed against several ammunition manufacturers (including Remington) alleging deceptive marketing practices related to lead content, has had ripple effects throughout the industry. While the lawsuit is ongoing, it has prompted manufacturers to re-evaluate their labeling and marketing practices. It has also led to increased consumer awareness regarding the potential health risks associated with lead exposure. This lawsuit hasn’t directly caused ammunition shortages, but it has added another layer of complexity to the already challenging landscape. The National Park Service provides information on responsible shooting practices and lead mitigation.
The lawsuit centers around claims that ammunition manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers about the risks of lead exposure from shooting activities. The plaintiffs argue that lead particles released during shooting can contaminate soil, water, and wildlife, posing a health hazard to humans and the environment. The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for ammunition labeling requirements and potentially lead to increased costs for manufacturers and consumers.
Despite the challenges, finding Remington shotgun shells and other ammunition is still possible. Here are some tips:
The acquisition by Vista Outdoor offers a glimmer of hope for Remington. Their investment in modernization and commitment to quality control are positive signs. However, the road to recovery will be long. The company needs to rebuild consumer trust, address lingering supply chain issues, and navigate the ongoing legal challenges. For shooters, staying informed, being flexible, and practicing responsible ammunition purchasing habits will be key to navigating the current landscape. I’ll continue to update my readers with the latest information as the situation evolves. For more information on responsible shooting and ammunition storage, check out Leave No Trace guidelines.
Disclaimer: Ammunition availability is constantly changing. The information provided in this article is based on the best available data as of early 2024 and is subject to change.