Description
Rio created the Vintage 1896 line to celebrate their heritage dating back to 1896 when paper-hulled shotgun shells were the standard. This commemorative ammunition brings back that classic shooting experience while maintaining modern manufacturing standards for reliable performance.
What Makes Rio Vintage 1896 Special
The paper hull construction is the heart of this design. Unlike modern plastic hulls, paper delivers the distinctive character that vintage shotgun enthusiasts appreciate, from the satisfying "crack" of the shot to the overall feel in hand. These shells combine period-correct aesthetics with contemporary engineering, so you get authentic nostalgia without sacrificing consistency or reliability.
Proven Performance on Clay and Game
With 1-1/4 ounces of #8 lead shot at 1300 fps, these 2.75" shells are built for both upland bird hunting and competitive clay shooting. The #8 shot size works particularly well for quail, grouse, and pheasant at normal hunting ranges, while also delivering dense patterns for skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Rio's single-base powder and quality primer ensure shot-to-shot consistency that competitive and recreational shooters both depend on.
A Commitment to Tradition and Craft
Rio manufactures these shells with the same attention to detail that defined their company's first century of ammunition production. The paper hulls are more environmentally friendly than plastic, breaking down naturally over time. Each box contains 10 shells, making them convenient for competition or a day afield.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rio Ammunition
- Manufacturer Part Number: VP36FHV8
- UPC: 8435101636773
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches
- Shot Weight: 1-1/4 oz
- Shot Size: #8 Lead
- Muzzle Velocity: 1300 fps
- Hull Material: Paper
- Rounds per Box: 10
- Boxes per Case: 25
- Primer Type: 209 Primer with dust-stopping membrane
- Wad Type: High-density polyethylene primer lock base
What’s Included
- 10 Rio Vintage 1896 Paper Flyer 12 gauge shells
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Rio Vintage 1896 Paper Flyer shells work in my modern shotgun?
Yes, the 2.75" length is the standard size that fits virtually all modern 12 gauge shotguns. Rio loads these to modern specifications, so function and reliability are not affected by the paper hull design. Check your shotgun's manual to confirm it's rated for 2.75" shells, as some specialized or heavily choked guns may have different requirements.
How do these paper hull shells perform compared to plastic?
The paper hulls produce less felt recoil and leave cleaner residue in your barrel and chamber. Rio's quality control ensures consistent, dense shot patterns shot to shot. Many experienced clay shooters report that paper patterns as well as or better than plastic, while the classic appearance and the authentic shooting experience are significant advantages for enthusiasts.
Are these shells suitable for hunting upland birds?
The #8 shot size is ideal for upland game hunting, particularly for quail, grouse, and pheasant at typical hunting distances. The 1-1/4 oz payload delivers effective coverage and pattern density for these smaller birds. These shells will perform well in both traditional hunts and modern sport hunting applications.
How should I store Rio Vintage 1896 paper hull shells?
Paper hulls require more careful storage than plastic hulls since they're sensitive to moisture and humidity. Keep them in a cool, dry location away from damp conditions. Avoid exposing them to high humidity for extended periods, as the paper can swell and potentially affect feeding in semi-automatic shotguns. Proper storage in a standard ammunition box in controlled conditions will keep them in perfect condition.





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