Federal Premium HEVI-Bismuth shotshells deliver exceptional performance for both upland birds and waterfowl hunting. These 12 gauge, 2-3/4" shells are loaded with 1-1/4 oz of #3 HEVI-Bismuth shot, which is 22 percent denser than steel at 9.6 g/cc. This higher density translates to more lethal energy downrange and higher pellet counts compared to steel loads. The rear-deploying FLITECONTROL FLEX wad ensures consistent, efficient patterns in both ported and non-ported chokes. With a muzzle velocity of 1350 fps, these shells offer the perfect balance of power and pattern density. Safe for use in both classic and modern shotguns, Federal HEVI-Bismuth ammunition provides versatility and top-tier performance for serious hunters.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications |
| Manufacturer |
Federal Cartridge Co. |
| Product Line |
Premium HEVI-Bismuth |
| Gauge |
12 Gauge |
| Shell Length |
2-3/4" |
| Shot Size |
#3 |
| Shot Weight |
1-1/4 oz |
| Shot Material |
HEVI-Bismuth |
| Muzzle Velocity |
1350 fps |
| Rounds Per Box |
25 |
| Boxes Per Case |
10 |
| Wad |
FLITECONTROL FLEX |
| Application |
Upland and Waterfowl Hunting |
Key Features:
The Federal HEVI-Bismuth 12 Gauge 2 3/4" 1 1/4 oz #3 Shot offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice for waterfowl and upland bird hunting. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| Pellet Density |
9.6 g/cc 22 percent denser than steel for increased downrange energy |
| Shot Size |
#3 Ideal for medium to large game birds |
| Shell Length |
2 3/4" Standard length for versatile use in most 12 gauge shotguns |
| Payload |
1 1/4 oz Heavy payload for maximum effectiveness |
| Muzzle Velocity |
1350 fps High velocity for improved ballistics and energy transfer |
| Wad |
FLITECONTROL FLEX Rear-deploying wad for consistent patterns in ported and non-ported chokes |
| Pellet Material |
HEVI-Bismuth Softer than steel and tungsten, safe for use in both classic and modern shotguns |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Upland Bird Hunting: Ideal for hunting various upland game birds due to its high density and efficient patterning
- Waterfowl Hunting: Excellent choice for duck and goose hunting, providing superior performance over steel shot
- Use in Classic Shotguns: Safe for use in older, classic shotguns due to the softer bismuth alloy
- Modern Shotgun Performance: Delivers optimal performance in modern shotguns with various choke configurations
- Environmentally Conscious Hunting: Non-toxic alternative to lead shot, complying with regulations for wetland hunting
Pros and Cons:
Pros
-
✔
High Density Shot: HEVI-Bismuth pellets are 22% denser than steel, delivering more lethal energy downrange.
-
✔
Versatile Usage: Effective for both upland birds and waterfowl hunting.
-
✔
Safe for Classic Shotguns: Softer than steel and tungsten, making it safe for use in both modern and classic shotguns.
-
✔
Consistent Patterns: FLITECONTROL FLEX wad creates more consistent and efficient patterns in ported and non-ported chokes.
-
✔
High Velocity: 1350 fps muzzle velocity provides excellent range and hitting power.
Cons
-
✘
Price: Generally more expensive than standard steel shot loads due to the premium bismuth material.
-
✘
Limited Availability: May be harder to find in stock compared to more common steel shot ammunition.
-
✘
Recoil: The high density shot and velocity may result in increased felt recoil compared to lighter loads.
-
✘
Overkill for Some Game: The high-performance characteristics may be excessive for smaller upland game birds.
About Federal Ammunition:
Federal Ammunition, a division of Vista Outdoor Inc., has been a leader in the ammunition industry since 1922. Headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota, Federal has built a reputation for innovation, quality, and performance over its century-long history. The company manufactures a wide range of ammunition for various applications, including hunting, sport shooting, and law enforcement. Federal's commitment to excellence is evident in their premium product lines, such as the HEVI-Bismuth shotshells, which showcase their dedication to developing advanced materials and technologies for superior performance. Federal operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in the United States, ensuring strict quality control and maintaining their position as a trusted American brand. Their partnerships with industry leaders like HEVI-Shot® demonstrate Federal's commitment to leveraging the best technologies available to deliver top-tier products to their customers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What makes Federal HEVI-Bismuth shotshells unique?
A: Federal HEVI-Bismuth shotshells are unique due to their 9.6 g/cc density pellets, which are 22% denser than steel. This higher density delivers more lethal energy downrange, resulting in improved performance for both upland birds and waterfowl hunting.
Q: Are these shotshells safe to use in older shotguns?
A: Yes, Federal HEVI-Bismuth shotshells are safe and effective for use in both classic and modern shotguns. The bismuth pellets are softer than steel and tungsten, making them suitable for use in older firearms without risking damage to the barrel.
Q: What is the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad, and how does it benefit the shooter?
A: The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad is a rear-deploying wad that creates more consistent and efficient patterns in both ported and non-ported chokes. This technology helps improve shot consistency and overall performance, giving hunters an advantage in the field.
Q: What is the muzzle velocity of these shotshells?
A: The Federal HEVI-Bismuth 12 Gauge 2 3/4" 1 1/4 oz #3 Shot shotshells have a muzzle velocity of 1350 fps (feet per second).
Q: How many shells come in a box, and how many boxes are in a case?
A: Each box contains 25 shotshells. A full case consists of 10 boxes, totaling 250 shotshells per case.
Q: Where are the HEVI-Bismuth pellets sourced and manufactured?
A: The HEVI-Bismuth pellets are sourced from HEVI-Shot®, the industry leader in pellet technology. The pellets are alloyed and cast in the USA, ensuring high quality and domestic production.