Fred - As to the strength of the Remington 1889, I reference the Fall issue of DGJ in which Sherman Bell tests a bunch of old damascus barreled SXSs, with bores of varied condition, with modern proof loads. He tested several 1889s and they just shrugged the loads off. Go buy some WAA Xtra-Lite 1 oz. loads and have fun. I handload for my 1889 16, but have shot low brass Federals. They are too good to leave in the safe.