Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of the most commonly asked questions that we receive about our shotgun shells and other products. We have tried to answer these as best we can. We hope the answers help in making your purchasing and performance decisions. If you feel that there is something that we left out, feel free to give us a call or email us with your own questions or comments.

About Our Products

What are Wagner Shells?

Eastern Gun & Supply Co. is part of our legal business name, however the shotgun shells that we produce are often referred to as Wagner Shells.  It has been a common nickname given to our shells since they were first introduced in the mid-1930’s by Oscar Wagner.

What does 2-2-10 stand for?

2-2-10 refers to the specifications of the shotgun shell.  The first 2 stands for 2 grams equivalent of powder.  The next 2 stands for the amount of shot, which in this case is 2 ounces.  Finally, the 10 stands for the size of the shot. In essence, the name of the shell is nothing more than the specifications of the shotgun shell.

What does Match-10 stand for?

Match-10 refers to the specifications of the shotgun shell.  The 10 stands for the size of the shot.  However, the amount of shot is less than that of the 2-2-10’s.  The amount of shot in the Match-10 shells is 1 1/4 ounces, rather than 2 ounces like the 2-2-10 shells.

What are the primary differences between the Match-10 and the 2-2-10?

As listed above, there are distinct differences between the two types of shells.  These lie in the shot amount, powder charge, and type of pattern that the shell will blow. There is 1 1/4 ounces of shot in the Match-10.  There are two ounces of shot in the 2-2-10 shotgun shells.  The Match-10’s shoot at a higher FPS than the 2-2-10’s.  That, along with a smaller shot quantity will result in denser patterns.

How many shotgun shells come in a box?

There are 25 shotgun shells per box. There are 20 boxes in a full case. There are 10 boxes in a half case, often referred to as a “flat”.

How many shotgun shells come in a case?

There are 20 boxes of shotgun shells in a full case. There are 10 boxes in a half case (flat).  Therefore, there are 500 shotgun shells in a case. There are 250 shotgun shells in a half case (flat).

Can I buy shotgun shells individually?

No, you can only purchase shells in a box, half-case, or case quantities.  Shells are not sold individually.  You can purchase brushes individually though.  Cardboard targets are sold in lots of 100, or you can purchase an entire case (Quantity of 3,600).

Do you sell any other type of ammunition?

At this time we only sell the three types of shotgun shells listed on this website:  2-2-10, Match-10, & Skeet-9.

What shell should I buy?

It all depends on what kind of results that you are looking for. 2-2-10’s are more likely to leave bigger patterns than Match-10 and Skeet-9’s. You will more likely have fewer ties if you shoot Match-10’s.  The patterns are more dense and less distinct than 2-2-10 patterns.  It is up to the preference of the shooter or the shooting match operator.

How often do you test for performance and quality?

We test all loads frequently.  Among the varaibles that are measured are PFS at muzzle, chamber pressure, and other data that is collected by our testing equipment.  Our shells are also ramdomdly selected and sent to various testing facilities that we have partnered with.  Being able to test through not only our own equipment, but in other controlled settings in other geoprhsic locations allows to gather a larger sample size of data.  All testing is done in accordance with SAAMI guidelines and measures.

Finally, just like the end user, we pattern test all of our loads to check for shot density.  Our end goal is to produce a pattern that meets the specification of the shotgun shell, be it a tight cluster of shot, or a small to mid-size hole.  Targets are measured anywhere from a minimum of 56 to 90+ feet.

Other Questions

How can I make the shotgun shell shoot at its best?

It is possible to have the choke modified on your gun.  By doing so, it could affect the shells in a way that will deliver bigger patterns.  However, this is dangerous and can lead to serious injury.  We strongly recommend that the shells are shot in an unmodified 12 gauge shotgun for the most consistent results.  Cleaning the barrel of the gun after each shot will also help in gaining better performance out of the shotgun shells.

What kind of gun can I shoot the shotgun shells in?

You can shoot each type of shotgun shell that we offer in various types of shotguns.  However, the shells are designed and meant to be shot in 12 gauge shotguns.  Our shells are tested with unmodified 12 gauge shotguns and intended for use with unmodified 12 gauge shotguns.

How old must I be to purchase ammunition?

Federal law requires that you must be at least 18 years old to purchase shotgun ammunition.   For safety reasons, we cannot accept returns on ammunition.  Check your local laws before ordering.

Do you sell shooting accessories?

We do sell some accessories that will be beneficial to shooting match operators and other enthusiasts.  Feel free to browse our site for our current inventory.

What are your hours of operation?

We are open to take orders via telephone Monday through Friday 9am – 6pm.  Our phone lines are open on Saturday 9am-Noon.  We are closed on Sunday.  Select accessories are available for purchase at our retail location in Pearisburg, VA, which is open Monday through Friday 9am – 5pm.  You can also visit the retail location on Saturday 9am – Noon.  Our retail location is closed on Sunday.  You are welcome to fax or mail your order as well.

Payment & Shipping

What Shipping Methods Are Available?

At this time we ship our ammunition orders packages through United Parcel Service (UPS) ground service.  Ammunition is not allowed to be shipped via “air” service.  Accessories are shipped through the US Postal Service (USPS).

Depending on the size of your order, we can ship through various trucking companies.  We have relationships with various carriers that can offer a lower cost alternative to regular UPS.  We have found that orders that have quantities of 250 boxes or more typically can be shipped via truck cheaper than UPS.  That is not always the case, but is usually the trend.

If you are ordering a large quantity of ammunition, please give us 5-7 days lead time so that we can have your order ready.  It will also give us time to shop carrier rates in order to get the best delivery price.

How Long Will It Take To Get My Package

It depends on where you are located.  We ship our packages from Virginia.  If you are located in the eastern part of the U.S.  it should only take 1-3 business days.  For orders farther west it usually takes 4+5 business days.  To obtain a more accurate delivery time to your area, please ask a customer service representative as they will be able to provide  more detailed information regarding your shipment.

Why does the phone operator say Direct Sports when I call?

Wagner Shells, Inc. t/a Eastern Gun & Supply Company has partnered with Direct Sports to handle inbound customer service calls.  When you call, just mention what type of shooting product that you would like, and a telephone operator will be happy to assist you.

How can I pay for my order?

You can pay for your order using several methods.  If you are picking up your order locally, you can pay with cash, major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express) or personal check.

If you are having your order shipped, you may pay by credit card, personal check, or C.O.D..  For more details click on the “How to Order” page.  This will cover everything you need to know about placing and paying for your order.

At this time, we do not accept PayPal.

How Can I Return A Product?

Any non-ammunition item may be returned for exchange or refund provided it is unused, in the original packaging and is returned within 30 days of the purchase date.

For safety reasons, we do not allow returns on ammunition.  Please call for authorization before returning any merchandise.  Shipping charges are not refundable.

Have any questions we didn't answer?

Give us a call at 1-800-456-0072.

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