Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel 12-Gauge Ammunition Review
Overview
I recently had the opportunity to test the Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel 12-gauge ammunition, and I was excited to see how it would perform in my shotgun. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, its features, and its overall performance.
Evaluating Performance
I shot a total of 200 rounds over several days, using my trusty 12-gauge shotgun. The first thing that caught my attention was the interesting packaging. The ammo comes in a convenient 3.25" shell box that’s easy to store and transport.
Ballistics
In terms of ballistics, the Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel performed exceptionally well. The shell’s unique steel material and unique wad design provided excellent pattern density and penetration. I was impressed with the tight, even spread of the shot, which was consistent throughout the entire range of distances I shot.
Pattern Performance
Here are some key statistics about the pattern performance of the Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel:
- Average Spread: 6-7 inches at 20 yards, 8-9 inches at 30 yards, and 10-11 inches at 40 yards.
- Pattern Consistency: Consistent performance across all distances, with minimal variance.
- Penetration: Excellent penetration, with most shot pellets reaching the target with minimal deflection or loss of energy.
Handling and Reliability
In terms of handling and reliability, the Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel performed flawlessly. The clean-running, smooth-textured wad and copper-plated lead-free primer made it easy to load and maintain my shotgun.
Consensus: The Good and the Not-So-Good
Here’s my take on the pros and cons of the Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel:
Pros:
• Exceptional pattern performance: Consistent, tight spreads make it ideal for multiple shot terminations.
• Reliability: Clean-running, smooth-textured wad and copper-plated lead-free primer ensure reliable function.
• Economical: Great value for the price, making it an excellent choice for waterfowl and upland game hunting.
• Environmental benefits: Lead-free primer and other eco-friendly features make it a more environmentally responsible choice.
Cons:
• Noise: Slightly louder than other premium shotgun shells, due to the steel material.
• Potential magnetism: Steel may attract rust in moist environments, requiring additional precautions for storage and handling.
• Seal integrity: Some users report issues with the crimped seal, which may lead to gas leaks or malfunction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel 12-gauge ammunition is an excellent choice for waterfowl and upland game hunting. While it may have some drawbacks, its exceptional pattern performance, reliability, and environmentally friendly features make it a great value. If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-performance shotgun shell, Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel is definitely worth considering.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
