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.
The Recent History of Remington: A Tumultuous Ride
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; a combination of factors contributed to its financial woes. These included declining sales, increased competition, and a series of unfortunate events. Many ask when did Remington go bad, and while pinpointing a single moment is impossible, the period leading up to the 2018 bankruptcy filing was critical.
Prior to the bankruptcy, Remington had a reputation for quality, but also for inconsistent manufacturing and quality control issues. This eroded consumer trust, particularly in the ammunition side of the business. The bankruptcy itself led to restructuring and, eventually, a sale. Remington was acquired by several entities, including Sierra Bullets and Vista Outdoor, splitting the firearms and ammunition businesses. This fragmentation has undoubtedly impacted the availability and perception of Remington products.
Understanding the Vista Outdoor Acquisition
Vista Outdoor, a major player in the outdoor sports industry (owning brands like Federal, CCI, and Bushnell), acquired Remington’s ammunition business in September 2022. Vista Outdoor has invested in modernizing Remington’s ammunition facilities and improving quality control. However, the transition hasn’t been without its challenges. Supply chain disruptions, increased demand, and the lingering effects of the previous issues continue to affect production and distribution.
Current Availability of Remington Ammunition
The availability of Remington shotgun shells and other calibers is improving, but it’s still not back to pre-pandemic levels. Popular calibers like 9mm, .223/5.56, and 12 gauge are generally more readily available than less common ones. However, even these common rounds can experience sporadic shortages depending on location and demand.
The situation with specific calibers is more nuanced. For example, finding 35 Remington ammo remains difficult. This is due to a combination of factors: relatively low production volume, a dedicated but smaller user base, and increased demand from hunters and collectors. I’ve spoken with several outfitters in the Northeast who rely on the .35 Remington for bear hunting, and they’ve all reported significant difficulty sourcing ammunition.
Popular Remington Ammunition Lines & Current Stock
Here’s a quick overview of some popular Remington ammunition lines and their current availability (as of late 2023/early 2024 – subject to change):
- Remington Core-Lokt: Generally available in common calibers, but some variations may be limited.
- Remington Premier: Availability is improving, but still spotty for less common calibers.
- Remington Golden Bullet: .22LR availability has fluctuated wildly, but is currently better than it was a year ago.
- Remington Accutip: The Remington Accutip shortage has been a persistent issue. Production has been ramped up, but demand remains high.
- Remington Nitro 22: Generally available, but prices can be higher than other .22LR options.
I recommend checking multiple retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar, to find the best prices and availability. Websites like MidwayUSA, Brownells, and Ammunition To Go are good starting points. Don't forget to check local sporting goods stores and gun shops.
The Remington Optics and Ammo Lawsuit: What You Need to Know
The optics and ammo lawsuit, stemming from allegations that Remington knowingly sold defective products (specifically, triggers on certain rifles and ammunition that didn’t perform as advertised), has had a significant impact on the company’s reputation and financial stability. The lawsuits alleged that Remington failed to adequately warn consumers about potential safety issues.
While Remington filed for bankruptcy in part to address these lawsuits, the legal battles continue. The outcome of these cases could have long-term implications for the company and the ammunition industry as a whole. It’s a reminder of the importance of responsible manufacturing, quality control, and transparency in the firearms industry. You can find more information about the lawsuit from reputable news sources like Reuters and NBC News.
Finding Hard-to-Find Ammunition: Tips and Strategies
If you’re struggling to find specific calibers like 35 Remington ammo, here are a few strategies that might help:
- Join Online Forums and Communities: Connect with other shooters who might be willing to trade or sell ammunition.
- Check Local Gun Shows: Gun shows can be a good source for hard-to-find ammunition, but be prepared to pay a premium.
- Consider Reloading: If you’re comfortable with it, reloading your own ammunition can be a cost-effective and reliable way to ensure you have the rounds you need. (See Reloading.com for resources).
- Set Up Price Alerts: Many online retailers offer price alerts that will notify you when ammunition you’re looking for comes back in stock.
- Expand Your Search Radius: Be willing to order ammunition from retailers outside of your immediate area.
The Future of Remington Ammunition
The future of Remington ammunition is still unfolding. Vista Outdoor’s investment and focus on quality control are positive signs. However, the company faces ongoing challenges, including supply chain issues, competition, and the lingering effects of its past troubles.
I believe that Remington has the potential to regain its position as a leading ammunition manufacturer. But it will require continued investment in quality, innovation, and customer service. For now, shooters need to be patient, resourceful, and prepared to adapt to changing market conditions. Staying informed about the latest developments, checking multiple sources for availability, and considering alternative options are all essential strategies for navigating the current ammunition landscape.
Resources for Staying Informed
- National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF): https://www.nssf.org/
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: https://lnt.org/ (Important for responsible shooting practices)
- National Park Service (NPS): https://www.nps.gov/ (For regulations regarding firearms in National Parks)
- USDA Forest Service: https://www.fs.usda.gov/ (For regulations regarding firearms in National Forests)
- REI Expert Advice: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice (General outdoor safety and preparedness information)
Disclaimer: Ammunition availability and pricing are constantly changing. The information provided in this article is based on the best available data as of the date of publication and is subject to change.