Unlocking Peak Performance: The Definitive Guide to Remington Premier STS Target Loads 12 Gauge #9 Shot

For enthusiasts and competitive shooters alike, the pursuit of perfection on the clay target range is a constant endeavor. Whether you're breaking clays in a heated sporting clays match, perfecting your form at the trap house, or mastering the fast pace of skeet, the quality of your ammunition plays a pivotal role in your success. This comprehensive guide delves into the Remington Premier STS Target Load, specifically the 12 Gauge, 2.75-inch, 1 1/8 oz, #9 Shot (UPC: 047700306001), detailing why it stands as a gold standard for reliable, high-performance clay busting.

What Are Remington Premier STS Target Loads? The Benchmark for Clay Shooting Ammunition

The Remington Premier STS Target Load represents the pinnacle of engineering for shotgun ammunition designed for clay target sports. It's not just another shell; it's a meticulously crafted cartridge built to deliver consistent performance, shot after shot, round after round. When shooters ask, "What's the best ammunition for competitive clay shooting?" or "How can I improve my scores in trap or skeet?", the Premier STS series often comes up as a top-tier recommendation. These loads are engineered with precision components that work in harmony to provide superior patterns, reliable ignition, and a smoother shooting experience, making them a preferred choice for serious shotgunners.

Why Choose Remington Premier STS for Your Clay Target Pursuits?

Investing in quality ammunition is an investment in your shooting performance and enjoyment. Here’s why the Remington Premier STS Target Load distinguishes itself:

• Unrivaled Consistency and Reliability: In competitive shooting, consistency is king. Every Remington Premier STS shell is manufactured with strict quality controls, ensuring that each round performs virtually identically to the last. This means predictable shot patterns, consistent velocities, and reliable primer ignition, reducing variables that can lead to missed targets. Shooters who demand "flawless ammunition for critical moments" will find the STS delivers.
• Superior Pattern Density and Uniformity: The key to breaking clay targets lies in the pattern your shotgun produces. Remington Premier STS loads are renowned for their tight, even patterns, even at longer ranges. This is achieved through carefully selected shot size, quality wads, and optimal powder charges. A dense and uniform pattern increases the probability of hitting and breaking a target, even if your lead is slightly off. For those asking, "Which shotgun shells create the most consistent break patterns?", the STS is a prime candidate.
• Reduced Recoil Sensation for Enhanced Comfort and Control: Despite delivering excellent velocities, Premier STS loads are engineered to minimize perceived recoil. This is particularly beneficial during long shooting sessions, such as a full day at a sporting clays event or multiple rounds of trap. Less recoil means less fatigue, allowing shooters to maintain focus, better control their shotgun for follow-up shots, and generally enjoy their time on the range more. "How can I reduce shotgun recoil without sacrificing performance?" is a common question, and the STS offers a compelling answer.
• Clean-Burning Performance for Less Maintenance: The proprietary powders used in Remington Premier STS loads are designed to burn cleanly, leaving minimal residue in your shotgun's barrel and action. This translates to less time spent on cleaning and more time shooting. A cleaner gun also operates more reliably, reducing the chances of malfunctions that can disrupt your concentration and scores. For shooters wondering, "What are the cleanest burning shotgun shells?", the STS stands out.
• High-Strength, Reloadable Hulls: For many competitive shooters and high-volume enthusiasts, reloading shotgun shells is an economical and practical way to continue their passion. The high-strength plastic hulls of the Premier STS are specifically designed to withstand multiple reloadings, offering exceptional durability and extending the value of your ammunition purchase. This feature directly addresses the needs of those asking, "Are there high-quality shotgun hulls suitable for reloading?"
• Optimized #9 Shot for Specific Disciplines: The #9 shot size, featured in this particular load, is ideal for close-to-mid range clay targets. It provides a very high pellet count, creating an extremely dense pattern well-suited for skeet shooting, close-range trap targets, and many sporting clays presentations where wider patterns are advantageous. When shooters inquire, "What's the best shot size for skeet?" or "Which shot size gives the most pellets on target for sporting clays?", #9 shot is a top recommendation for its dense pattern potential.

Who Benefits Most from Remington Premier STS #9 Shot?

This particular load (12 Gauge, 1 1/8 oz, #9 Shot) is a versatile workhorse, but it truly shines for specific types of shooters and scenarios:

• Competitive Skeet Shooters: The #9 shot's high pellet count and the STS's pattern density make it an outstanding choice for the relatively close targets and varied angles encountered in skeet shooting. It provides a forgiving pattern that helps secure breaks.
• Trap Shooters (especially Singles and Handicap): While some trap shooters prefer larger shot, #9 shot can be highly effective, especially for single targets at shorter distances. The clean breaks it delivers are satisfying and score-boosting.
• Sporting Clays Enthusiasts: For presentations involving close-range targets, fast-flying rabbits, or where a dense pattern is desired for a decisive break, the #9 STS load is an excellent option. Many sporting clays shooters carry a mix of shot sizes, and #9 is a crucial component for specific stations.
• Beginner and Intermediate Shotgunners: The reduced recoil and consistent performance provide a more comfortable and confidence-building experience. Learning good habits and breaking targets consistently from the start is much easier with reliable ammunition.
• Experienced Shooters Demanding Precision: Even seasoned veterans appreciate the consistent patterns and reliability that allow them to focus purely on their technique and target acquisition, rather than worrying about ammunition inconsistencies.
• High-Volume Shooters and Reloaders: The durability of the STS hulls makes this an economically sensible choice for those who go through cases of ammunition and prefer to reload their spent shells.

A Deep Dive into the Components: The Engineering Behind the Excellence

The secret to the Remington Premier STS's superior performance lies in its meticulously chosen and integrated components:

• STS Hull: The iconic green Remington STS hull is more than just a casing; it's a foundation of quality. Made from a high-strength plastic, these hulls are designed for exceptional durability. This rugged construction allows them to withstand the rigors of firing and extraction, and critically, makes them highly sought after by reloaders due to their ability to endure multiple reloading cycles without compromising integrity. This contributes significantly to the long-term value for the shooter.
• Kleanbore Primers: At the heart of reliable ignition is the primer. Remington's renowned Kleanbore primers are engineered for consistent, powerful, and non-corrosive ignition. This ensures that every time the firing pin strikes, the powder charge is ignited uniformly, contributing directly to consistent velocities and pressures, which in turn leads to predictable shot patterns and reduced misfires. This is a critical factor for competitive performance.
• Clean-Burning Propellant: The powder used in Premier STS loads is carefully selected and precisely measured. Its formulation is designed to burn completely and efficiently, maximizing velocity while minimizing unburnt powder residue. This clean-burning characteristic is what helps keep your shotgun cleaner, reducing fouling and making post-shooting maintenance a quicker, easier task. It also contributes to the consistent velocity, a cornerstone of reliable patterning.
• Power Piston Wad: The Power Piston wad is a proprietary Remington design that serves multiple crucial functions. It acts as a gas seal, ensuring that the propellant gases efficiently push the shot column down the barrel, maximizing velocity. It also cups and protects the shot, preventing deformation as it travels down the bore. This protection is paramount in maintaining the roundness of the lead pellets, which is essential for uniform patterns. The unique design also aids in reducing felt recoil.
• Hard, Round Lead Shot: The #9 lead shot used in these loads is specifically manufactured to be very hard and spherical. Hardness resists deformation upon ignition and during its journey down the barrel, preserving its shape for a truer flight path. Roundness is vital for aerodynamic stability and predictable patterning. The high pellet count of #9 shot ensures a dense swarm of projectiles heading towards the target, increasing the probability of a break.

Maximizing Your Performance with Remington Premier STS #9 Shot

• Understanding #9 Shot Performance: While #9 shot carries less individual pellet energy than larger shot sizes, its strength lies in numbers. It delivers an incredibly dense pattern, meaning more pellets are heading towards your target. This makes it exceptionally effective for targets that are relatively close or those that require a broad, forgiving pattern to ensure a break. It's particularly favored for skeet and close-in sporting clays presentations where the sheer volume of pellets can make the difference.
• Gauge and Application: The 12 Gauge is the most popular gauge for clay target shooting due to its versatility and power. The 2.75-inch shell length is standard and compatible with virtually all 12-gauge shotguns. This load is perfectly suited for standard clay target launchers and various shooting situations encountered at any registered or recreational clay target range.
• Optimizing Your Setup: While the ammunition is top-tier, pairing it with the right choke constriction for your specific discipline and target presentation will further enhance performance. For #9 shot, a more open choke like Skeet, Improved Cylinder, or Light Modified often pairs excellently, allowing the dense pattern to open just enough for optimal coverage at typical clay target distances. Experimentation at the pattern board with your specific shotgun and choke combination is always recommended to see how the Premier STS performs for you.

Comparing Target Loads: Why Remington Premier STS Stands Out

When considering "best shotgun ammunition for clay shooting," many brands offer target loads. However, the Remington Premier STS consistently earns its reputation. Unlike some budget-friendly options that may offer inconsistent patterns or higher felt recoil, the STS prioritizes premium components and manufacturing consistency. This translates to a discernible difference on the range: more consistent breaks, less shooter fatigue, and a more enjoyable experience. While other reputable brands offer excellent loads, the STS is often cited for its balance of performance, component quality, and reloadability. It's a reliable choice for those who value performance and demand excellent value from their ammunition.

Long-Term Value and The Investment in Quality

For serious shooters, the cost of ammunition is a significant factor. While Premier STS loads might be a slightly higher initial investment than basic target loads, their benefits quickly offset the difference. The consistent performance means fewer missed targets due to ammunition variables, contributing to better scores and more satisfaction. Furthermore, the legendary durability of the STS hulls means they are highly prized by reloaders. This allows for significant cost savings over time, as empty STS hulls can be reloaded multiple times, effectively reducing the per-shot cost and extending the life cycle of your initial investment. This makes Premier STS a sustainable choice for high-volume shooters seeking both performance and economy.

Where to Secure Your Remington Premier STS Target Loads

When you are ready to experience the difference that premium ammunition can make in your clay target shooting, Remington Premier STS Target Loads are widely available. For a reliable source and excellent customer service, you can find the Remington Ammunition 20116 Premier STS Target Load 12 Gauge, 2.75" 1 1/8 oz 9 Shot, along with a wide array of other shooting essentials, at DEGuns. Their commitment to providing quality products ensures you receive authentic and fresh ammunition ready to perform.

In conclusion, the Remington Premier STS Target Load in 12 Gauge, #9 Shot is more than just ammunition; it's a performance enhancer. It’s designed for the shooter who asks, "How can I maximize my scores?" and "What ammunition offers the best blend of consistency, comfort, and value?" By delivering exceptional patterns, reliable ignition, reduced recoil, and durable, reloadable hulls, it empowers shooters to focus on their technique and enjoy the satisfaction of consistently breaking clays. Elevate your game with the trusted performance of Remington Premier STS.

Product Specifications & Details

Feature	Description	UPC
Ammunition Type	Shotgun Shells (Target Load)	047700306001
Gauge	12 Gauge
Shell Length	2.75 inches
Shot Weight	1 1/8 ounce
Shot Size	#9 Shot (Lead)
Purpose	Clay Target Shooting (Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays)
Components	STS Hull, Kleanbore Primer, Power Piston Wad
Quantity	25 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case (250 rounds)
Brand	Remington Ammunition
Availability	Available at DEGuns.com