I think I am in the minority here, but I firmly believe we will see more reasonably priced no-tox (non-steel) in the next few years. Reasonable cost is a relative term, and what may be reasonable to an upland hunter may seem outrageous to the range folks.
The recent shell offerings that are costing $3.00 p/shell are that expensive largely because of air transportation costs from China to the United States. If the tungsten had been sent by ship the cost of the shells would have been significantly less, although still more than steel. I have not used them but the manufacturer says they compare favorably to lead.
From what I understand the Bismuth company is hung up in an estate. That problem will eventually take care of itself bringing that product back to the market. Even if it is not resolved, it is also my understanding that the patent on bismuth has little time remaining. If the demand is still there some manufacturers will pick up this product. If there is enough demand the cost will come down.
There are currently, at least, two U.S. manufacturers serving the vintage gun market, and one of them is trying to get the cost down. I for one will try and support that effort with my wallet. I have far more faith in economics than I do in politicians.
Maybe as Larry and others have said we will get a little lucky and economics will help drive the state DNR's in the right direction. The Fed's may be another issue to deal with, because I am not sure no-tox will gore their ox.
