Let’s Talk About **Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 24% Off**
The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition is designed for the upland game hunter seeking a reliable and effective cartridge. Manufactured by Federal, this ammunition aims to deliver consistent patterns and sufficient power for taking down birds like quail, pheasant, and grouse. The allure of this round lies in its promise of optimized shot hardness, ensuring tighter groupings and greater downrange energy, a critical factor when chasing fast-moving game in varied terrain.
My quest for the perfect upland load began years ago, plagued by inconsistent patterns and frustrating misses. I needed a cartridge that could offer both accuracy and reliability in the field. The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass presented itself as a contender, promising to address these very issues.
Unboxing the Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass, I immediately noted the high brass plating, a hallmark of quality and corrosion resistance. The shells felt robust and well-constructed, instilling confidence in their ability to withstand the rigors of the hunt. They were notably clean and consistent in their crimping, a detail often overlooked but indicative of careful manufacturing.
Compared to other 20 gauge upland loads I’ve used – namely, Winchester AA and Remington ShurShot – the Federal Premium Load stood out due to its emphasis on shot hardness. While the Winchester AA offered exceptional consistency at the range, it sometimes lacked the punch needed for longer shots in the field. The Remington ShurShot, a budget-friendly option, often suffered from inconsistent patterns. The Federal Premium Load, with its promise of optimized shot hardness, seemed like a balanced solution.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the claims of superior patterns and consistent results held true in real-world hunting scenarios. The promise of reliable ignition and efficient energy transfer was particularly exciting, especially considering the often unpredictable nature of upland hunting.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 24% Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass during a pheasant hunting trip in South Dakota. The conditions were typical for late fall: cold, windy, and with patches of light rain. This presented a good challenge for the ammunition, testing its reliability in adverse weather.
The performance was immediately noticeable. The Federal Premium Load consistently delivered tighter patterns at 30 yards compared to my previous loads. Birds folded cleanly, minimizing cripples and ensuring ethical harvests. The consistent ignition and clean-burning propellant were also evident, contributing to a smooth and reliable shooting experience.
The shells were easy to load and eject, with no signs of swelling or sticking. There was no noticeable difference in recoil compared to other 1oz 20 gauge loads. I encountered no malfunctions or failures to fire, further solidifying my initial positive impression.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across multiple hunting seasons and various game birds, the Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve used it for everything from early-season quail to late-season grouse, and it has consistently performed well.
I have noticed no significant signs of wear and tear on my shotgun, even after firing hundreds of rounds. The high brass-plated steel head appears to resist corrosion effectively, even when exposed to moisture. Cleaning my shotgun after using these shells is a breeze, with minimal residue left behind.
Compared to my previous go-to load, the Federal Premium Load has definitely outperformed in terms of pattern density and downrange energy. The consistent performance has instilled confidence and improved my overall success rate in the field. It has become my preferred choice for upland hunting.
Breaking Down the Features of **Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 24% Off**
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Federal
- Gauge: 20
- Number of Rounds: 25
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 inches
- Muzzle Velocity: 1220 ft/s
- Application: Upland
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 oz
- Shot Material: Lead
- Primer Style: Centerfire
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass
- Lead Free: No
- Type: Lead
These specifications highlight the purpose-built design of the Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass. The 20 gauge offers a balance of manageable recoil and sufficient power for upland game. The 1 oz shot weight provides ample payload for effective patterns, while the 1220 ft/s muzzle velocity ensures adequate energy transfer at typical upland hunting ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass excels in its primary function: reliably and effectively taking down upland game birds. The consistent patterns translate to fewer missed shots and cleaner kills. The reliable ignition ensures that each shell fires consistently, a critical factor when hunting fast-moving targets.
One notable strength is the optimized shot hardness, which leads to tighter patterns and increased downrange energy. The high brass plating and one-piece wad contribute to consistent performance and reliable feeding in various shotgun actions. A minor potential weakness, inherent to lead shot, is its environmental impact, making it unsuitable for areas with lead restrictions.
The Federal Premium Load has met and exceeded my expectations in terms of pattern density, downrange energy, and overall reliability. It offers a significant improvement over previous loads I’ve used, particularly in challenging hunting conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass prioritizes functionality and reliability. The high brass plating not only enhances corrosion resistance but also contributes to smooth feeding and ejection. The one-piece wad ensures consistent shot disbursement and minimizes plastic fouling in the barrel.
The shells are easy to handle and load, with a consistent crimp that prevents shot leakage. The overall build quality is excellent, instilling confidence in their durability and performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass is designed for single-use and is not intended for reloading. The high-quality components and robust construction ensure reliable performance throughout its intended lifespan. Minimal maintenance is required beyond proper storage in a dry environment.
Given the high brass construction and quality components, these shells are expected to maintain their integrity for several years when stored properly. The minimal fouling and residue contribute to easier shotgun cleaning and maintenance, further enhancing their long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass is ammunition, and therefore, customization options are limited to choosing different shot sizes. The availability of various shot sizes (typically #6, #7.5, and #8) allows hunters to tailor their load to specific game birds and hunting conditions.
The ammunition is compatible with any 20 gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4 inch shells. It does not require any specialized accessories or modifications.
Pros and Cons of **Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 24% Off**
Pros
- Consistent and tight patterns for improved accuracy.
- Reliable ignition and clean-burning propellant for smooth operation.
- High brass-plated steel head for corrosion resistance and smooth feeding.
- Optimized shot hardness for increased downrange energy.
- Suitable for a wide range of upland game birds.
Cons
- Lead shot is not environmentally friendly and may be restricted in certain areas.
- Slightly more expensive than budget-level upland loads.
Who Should Buy **Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 24% Off**?
The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass is perfect for serious upland game hunters who demand consistent performance and reliability. It is also well-suited for those who prioritize ethical harvests and minimal cripples. Hunters seeking a versatile load for various upland game birds will find this ammunition to be an excellent choice.
Hunters on a very tight budget might opt for a more economical load, although the improved performance of the Federal Premium Load often justifies the slightly higher price. Those hunting in areas with lead restrictions should explore lead-free alternatives.
A quality shotgun case to protect your firearm and choke tubes tailored to your specific hunting conditions are must-have accessories to complement this ammunition.
Conclusion on **Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 24% Off**
The Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass 20 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition is a top-tier choice for upland game hunters seeking reliable performance and consistent results. Its optimized shot hardness, high brass plating, and clean-burning propellant contribute to tighter patterns, increased downrange energy, and smooth operation.
The price is justified by the improved performance and reliability compared to budget-level loads. The Federal Premium Load is a worthy investment for any serious upland hunter.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Federal Premium Load Upland Hi-Brass to anyone looking to enhance their upland hunting experience. Upgrade your hunt today and experience the Federal difference!