Let’s Talk About **Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 20% Off**
The Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition aims to be a reliable choice for upland bird hunters. Manufactured by Federal, this ammunition is designed to provide consistent patterns and sufficient power for taking down birds like quail, pheasant, and grouse. With its 1-ounce lead payload and a muzzle velocity of 1165 ft/s, it promises a balanced blend of energy and manageable recoil in the often-underappreciated 16 gauge.
For years, I’ve favored the 20 gauge for its lighter recoil, but the challenge of finding consistent, quality ammunition led me to explore the 16 gauge. I needed a shell that could deliver consistent patterns at moderate ranges, crucial for ethical and effective hunting in dense upland cover. After extensive research, the Federal Premium Game Load Upland seemed like the ideal candidate, promising performance and availability at a reasonable price, especially with the advertised discount.
Upon receiving the shells, the packaging was typical Federal, sturdy and functional. The shells themselves looked clean and well-assembled. I immediately noticed the brass-plated steel head, a feature often associated with reliable extraction. It was a promising start. Compared to other budget-friendly upland loads, the Federal Premium Game Load Upland had a more polished appearance, suggesting a greater attention to detail in manufacturing.
My initial impression was positive. The shells felt well-made, and the specifications aligned with my needs for upland hunting. I was eager to get to the range and see how they performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 20% Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Federal Premium Game Load Upland at my local sporting clays range, simulating upland hunting scenarios by shooting at various distances and angles. The weather was typical for early autumn: cool, slightly overcast, and with a light breeze. The shells chambered smoothly in my vintage 16-gauge Browning A5.
The recoil was noticeable but manageable, certainly less than some of the heavier 12-gauge loads I’ve used. Pattern density was surprisingly consistent at 30 yards. I didn’t notice any significant gaps or flyers, suggesting a well-designed wad and consistent shot hardness. There were no malfunctions or failures to eject, which is always a relief.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a few upland hunts, the Federal Premium Game Load Upland has continued to perform reliably. I’ve put approximately 150 rounds through my shotgun with no issues. The shells show no signs of degradation even after being stored in my vest for extended periods.
The brass-plated steel heads have held up well, showing no signs of corrosion or separation. Cleaning is straightforward. Standard shotgun bore cleaner is sufficient to remove any residue. Compared to some cheaper shells I’ve used in the past, these Federal loads seem to burn cleaner, reducing fouling in the barrel.
Breaking Down the Features of **Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Specifications
Manufacturer: Federal. A well-known and trusted name in ammunition manufacturing.
Gauge: 16. A classic gauge offering a balance between power and recoil.
Number of Rounds: 25. Standard box quantity for shotgun shells.
Shell Length: 2 3/4 in. The standard shell length for 16 gauge shotguns, ensuring compatibility with most models.
Muzzle Velocity: 1165 ft/s. Provides sufficient energy for effective hunting at moderate ranges.
Application: Upland. Specifically designed for upland game birds.
Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 oz. A balanced payload for 16 gauge, offering a good compromise between pattern density and recoil.
Shot Material: Lead. Traditional shot material known for its density and effectiveness.
Primer Style: Centerfire. Reliable and consistent ignition.
Cartridge Case Material: Brass. Ensures smooth extraction and reliable feeding. The brass-plated steel head adds to this.
Lead Free: No. These are lead shot shells, check local regulations before use.
Type: Lead. Indicates the primary shot material.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the performance of the ammunition in the field. The 1-ounce payload at 1165 ft/s provides the necessary energy to effectively take down upland game birds. The brass-plated steel head and centerfire primer ensure consistent ignition and reliable extraction.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium Game Load Upland performs admirably in its intended role. The patterns are consistent and dense enough to provide ethical kills at typical upland hunting ranges (20-40 yards). Recoil is manageable, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
The main strength is its consistent performance. Regardless of temperature or humidity, the shells have consistently delivered reliable ignition and patterns. The only minor weakness is that the lead shot is not ideal for areas where non-toxic shot is required. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations for an upland game load in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The shells are well-assembled, and the brass-plated steel head provides a secure seal and smooth extraction. The weight is typical for a 1-ounce 16-gauge load.
The shells are easy to handle and load, with no sharp edges or imperfections. The design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, which is perfectly acceptable for ammunition. There is no learning curve; these shells are ready to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Federal Premium Game Load Upland is designed for single use, so durability primarily refers to the shell’s ability to withstand storage and handling. With proper storage (cool, dry place), these shells should last for many years. Minimal maintenance is required.
Simply wipe down the exterior of the shells if they become dirty or wet before loading them. The quality components and construction suggest a reasonable lifespan for stored ammunition.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is ammunition, so there are no included accessories or customization options in the traditional sense. However, you can choose different shot sizes (e.g., #6, #7.5, #8) to tailor the load to specific game birds and hunting conditions. The shells are compatible with any 16-gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4″ shells.
You can use aftermarket choke tubes to further refine the pattern and effective range of the ammunition. These loads perform well with a variety of choke constrictions, from improved cylinder to modified.
Pros and Cons of **Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Pros
- Consistent patterns at typical upland hunting ranges.
- Reliable ignition and smooth extraction.
- Manageable recoil, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
- Affordable price point, especially with the discount.
- Federal’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Cons
- Lead shot is not suitable for areas requiring non-toxic ammunition.
- The 16-gauge, while effective, can sometimes be harder to find than 12 or 20 gauge shells.
Who Should Buy **Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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The Federal Premium Game Load Upland is perfect for upland bird hunters seeking a reliable and affordable 16-gauge load. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate the classic balance of the 16 gauge. Anyone looking for a versatile and effective load for quail, pheasant, grouse, and other upland game will be satisfied.
Someone who primarily hunts in areas requiring non-toxic shot should skip this product. Also, if you are extremely recoil-sensitive, you might prefer a lighter load or a different gauge. A quality shotgun case for storage and transport is a must-have accessory. Consider purchasing a choke tube set to optimize patterns for different hunting scenarios.
Conclusion on **Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 20% Off**
The Federal Premium Game Load Upland 16 Gauge 1oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition is a solid choice for upland bird hunters seeking a reliable and affordable load. The consistent patterns, reliable ignition, and manageable recoil make it a pleasure to use in the field. The price is justified, especially with the current discount.
I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a quality 16-gauge upland load. It delivers consistent performance and represents excellent value for the money. If you’re a 16-gauge enthusiast looking for a reliable and effective upland load, give the Federal Premium Game Load Upland a try – you won’t be disappointed! Load up and get out there!