Mastering the Clay Target: An In-Depth Look at Remington Premier STS Target Loads

For dedicated clay target enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and serious hobbyists, the pursuit of perfection on the range is an ongoing journey. Every shot, every break, and every round fired contributes to a deeper understanding of the sport. At the heart of this pursuit lies the critical choice of ammunition. When precision, consistency, and reliability are paramount, one name consistently rises to the top: Remington. Specifically, the Remington Ammunition 20114 Premier STS Target Load in 12 Gauge represents a benchmark in shotgun shell performance, meticulously engineered to give shooters an edge in disciplines like trap, skeet, and sporting clays.

So, what makes the Remington Premier STS Target Load the preferred choice for so many, and what problems does it solve for shooters aiming for higher scores and more satisfying sessions? This comprehensive guide will explore the intricate details of this ammunition, revealing why it’s a staple in the shooting community and how it contributes to superior performance.

The Foundation of Excellence: Understanding the STS Legacy

The Remington STS (Premier STS) line of ammunition isn't just a product; it's a legacy. Trusted for decades, STS hulls are renowned for their strength, durability, and reloadability – a significant benefit for high-volume shooters. This particular load, featuring an 8.5 shot size, is specifically tailored for the demanding requirements of clay target shooting.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Gauge: 12 Gauge
• Shell Length: 2.75 inches
• Shot Weight: 1 1/8 ounces
• Shot Size: 8.5 shot
• Packaging: 25 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case (250 rounds total)
• UPC: 030317499853

But these specifications only scratch the surface. The real value lies in the sum of its parts and the engineering prowess behind each component.

Unpacking the Performance Advantages: Why STS Stands Out

When asking "What's the best target load for competitive shooting?" or "How can I get more consistent breaks on clays?", the answer often points directly to ammunition designed for repeatable performance. The Remington Premier STS line is built precisely for this purpose.

The Iconic STS Hull: Strength, Reliability, and Reloadability

Perhaps the most recognized feature of the Premier STS series is its signature hull. Unlike many other shotgun shells, the STS hull is engineered for exceptional strength and durability. This robust construction ensures that the shell withstands the pressures of firing while maintaining its integrity, contributing to consistent chambering and ejection.

For avid shooters and reloaders, the STS hull offers a distinct advantage: its legendary reloadability. While not directly part of the factory loaded product, the ability to reload these hulls multiple times extends their value, allowing shooters to further fine-tune their loads for specific applications or simply reduce costs for high-volume practice. This quality speaks volumes about the intrinsic strength and design integrity of the hull itself, ensuring reliable performance even in its initial factory loaded state.

Kleanbore Primers: Consistent Ignition, Cleaner Performance

At the heart of any reliable cartridge is a dependable primer. Remington's Kleanbore primers are a cornerstone of the Premier STS Target Load's consistency. These primers are meticulously manufactured to provide instant, consistent ignition every time. This translates directly to predictable velocities and patterns, which are crucial for breaking fast-moving clay targets.

Furthermore, the "Kleanbore" designation isn't just a marketing term. These primers are designed to burn cleaner than many alternatives, significantly reducing the amount of residue left in the shotgun's action and barrel. For shooters who put hundreds, if not thousands, of rounds downrange in a single session or across a season, cleaner-burning ammunition means less time spent on maintenance and more time focusing on their swing and follow-through. It addresses the common question: "How do I keep my shotgun cleaner during high-volume shooting?"

Power Piston Wads: Optimal Pattern Density and Reduced Recoil

The wad plays a crucial role in the ballistic performance of a shotgun shell, and the Remington Power Piston wad is a testament to advanced design. This innovative one-piece wad is designed to protect the shot column as it travels down the barrel, preventing deformation and ensuring a more uniform pattern upon exiting the muzzle. For clay target shooting, a dense, even pattern is paramount for reliably breaking targets. The Power Piston wad helps achieve this by:

• Minimizing Shot Deformation: As the shot accelerates, it can deform due to friction against the barrel walls and pressure from the propellant. The Power Piston wad encapsulates the shot, significantly reducing this deformation.
• Optimizing Gas Seal: The wad creates an efficient gas seal behind the shot, ensuring that maximum energy from the burning propellant is directed towards propelling the shot forward, leading to consistent velocities.
• Recoil Reduction: The design of the Power Piston wad also contributes to a smoother recoil impulse. While 12-gauge loads naturally produce recoil, the STS design helps distribute this energy more effectively, making high-volume shooting sessions more comfortable and reducing shooter fatigue. This is a critical factor for competitive shooters who fire hundreds of rounds in a day, directly answering the question: "How can I reduce felt recoil for extended shooting sessions?"

Precisely Selected Shot: The Advantage of 8.5 Shot Size

The 8.5 shot size, a distinct feature of this specific Remington Premier STS load, is strategically chosen for clay target applications. While 7.5 and 9 shot are also popular, 8.5 offers a unique balance:

• Pellet Count: It provides a higher pellet count than 7.5 shot, increasing the density of the pattern and the probability of hitting and breaking a target, especially at slightly longer ranges.
• Energy Transfer: It carries more energy than 9 shot, which can be beneficial for breaking tougher clay targets or for shots taken at the edges of effective range.
• Versatility: This shot size is highly versatile for various clay disciplines, performing exceptionally well in skeet, trap, and many sporting clays scenarios where targets may vary in distance and speed.

For those asking, "What shot size is best for clay shooting?", the 8.5 shot in the Remington STS offers an outstanding balance of pellet count and individual pellet energy, contributing to decisive breaks.

Real-World Applications and Use Cases

The Remington Premier STS Target Load 12 Gauge 2.75" 1 1/8 oz 8.5 Shot is engineered for performance in the arena. Here are specific scenarios where this ammunition shines:

• Competitive Trap Shooting: Trap shooting demands extreme consistency in pattern and velocity. The STS load's reliable ignition, consistent patterns, and smooth recoil make it a favorite for shooters aiming to hit 25 straight or higher.
• Skeet Shooting: In skeet, where targets fly across a wide arc at varying angles and distances, a dense and uniform pattern is essential. The 8.5 shot and Power Piston wad ensure effective breaks across all stations.
• Sporting Clays: Sporting clays courses mimic real-world hunting scenarios with diverse target presentations. The versatility of the 8.5 shot size allows shooters to confidently engage targets that might appear as springing teal, rabbits, or high overhead birds.
• High-Volume Practice: For shooters looking to hone their skills without breaking the bank or enduring excessive recoil, the STS loads offer a premium practice experience. The clean-burning components and manageable recoil facilitate longer, more productive practice sessions.
• Youth and New Shooters: While a 12-gauge load, the overall design contributes to reduced felt recoil, making it a more comfortable option for shooters who might be sensitive to heavier loads, allowing them to focus on technique rather than recoil anticipation.

If you're wondering, "What ammunition do competitive shooters use?" or "How can I improve my scores in clay shooting?", the answer often involves choosing high-quality, consistent ammunition like the Premier STS.

Why Choose Remington Premier STS Target Loads?

Choosing ammunition is a personal decision, but for those seeking consistent, top-tier performance, the Remington Premier STS Target Load offers compelling reasons:

• Unwavering Consistency: Every component, from the primer to the shot, is designed for repeatability. This means less variation from shot to shot, leading to more predictable results on the range.
• Clean Burning: The Kleanbore primers and optimized powders contribute to cleaner shotgun operation, minimizing the need for frequent cleaning and maximizing your time shooting.
• Manageable Recoil: The thoughtful design of the wad and the balanced load composition work together to soften felt recoil, enhancing comfort during extended shooting sessions and improving follow-up shots.
• Superior Patterning: The Power Piston wad ensures a tight, uniform shot pattern, which is critical for reliably breaking clay targets, whether they're flying high, fast, or far.
• Trusted Heritage: Remington has a long-standing reputation for producing quality ammunition, and the STS line is a testament to that legacy, trusted by countless shooters for generations. This isn't just ammunition; it's a piece of shooting history refined for modern performance.
• Optimized for Clay Targets: Every aspect of this load, from the 8.5 shot size to the component selection, is purpose-built for the unique demands of trap, skeet, and sporting clays, providing a distinct advantage over general-purpose loads.

For those serious about their clay shooting, investing in ammunition that performs consistently is not just a preference; it's a strategic decision that directly impacts performance and enjoyment. The Remington Premier STS Target Load is a prime example of such a strategic choice.

Availability and Where to Purchase

These exceptional Remington Premier STS Target Loads, along with a wide array of other high-quality firearms and accessories, are readily available at DEGuns. DEGuns is committed to providing shooters with the best products to enhance their experience and performance on the range. Whether you are stocking up for a competitive season or simply seeking the best for your next practice session, you can find the Remington Ammunition 20114 Premier STS Target Load and many other trusted brands at DEGuns.com.

In conclusion, the Remington Ammunition 20114 Premier STS Target Load in 12 Gauge stands as a pillar of excellence in the world of clay target shooting. Its combination of robust STS hulls, reliable Kleanbore primers, innovative Power Piston wads, and precisely chosen 8.5 shot size culminates in a product that delivers unparalleled consistency, clean performance, and manageable recoil. For any shooter dedicated to improving their scores and enjoying the sport to its fullest, this ammunition is not just an option—it's an essential tool for success.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
UPC	030317499853
Gauge	12 Gauge
Shell Length	2.75 inches
Shot Weight	1 1/8 ounces
Shot Size	8.5 Shot
Rounds per Box	25
Boxes per Case	10
Total Rounds	250
Ammunition Type	Target Load
Application	Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays
Brand	Remington Ammunition
Model Number	20114