Mark - I have shot everything from handloads in the 7,500 psi range to Remington Gameloads in the 16. The Parker gets handloads in the 5,000 to 6,500 range and Winchester X-tra Lites on occasion. And no, I don't use black. Shoot black a few times and you'll realize why smokeless was invented. If you are shooting a 16b join the 16 gauge Group. Lots of good loads and advice in shooting that gauge. In regards to twist vs. damascus, these are Twist. See the most recent Sherman Bell article in the DGJ.