First Impressions of Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge 2 3/4in 1oz 3 1/4 Dram 8.5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition HOA12HC1 8.5 $1.10 Off
The Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge shotgun ammunition is a staple in the competitive shooting world. Specifically designed for trap, skeet, and sporting clays, this ammo promises consistent patterns, reliable performance, and reloadability – all critical for top-tier competition. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, especially given my experience with other premium target loads.
My pursuit of the perfect target load started years ago. I’ve chased that elusive “smoke ball” break on clays courses across the country. My goal was to find an affordable yet high-performing shell. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank during practice.
Unboxing the Federal Premium High Over All, I immediately noticed the quality of the shell. The hull felt sturdy, and the crimp was clean and consistent, which is a good sign of even pressure during firing. The solid brass head exuded quality.
Compared to Winchester AA and Remington STS, two other popular target loads, the Federal offering seemed more robust. Its tapered hull design, promising easier reloading, was a definite plus, as I reload my shells to save money. I chose the Federal load specifically for its reputation for reloadability and consistent patterns.
My initial reaction was positive. I was excited to get to the range and see how these shells performed. I’d heard whispers of their consistency and clean breaks, and my curiosity was piqued.
Real-World Testing: Putting Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge 2 3/4in 1oz 3 1/4 Dram 8.5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition HOA12HC1 8.5 $1.10 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Federal Premium High Over All at my local shooting range. I used my Beretta A400 Xcel Sporting, a reliable shotgun known for its smooth cycling and consistent performance. The range offered a variety of clay target presentations, perfect for evaluating the shell’s capabilities.
The weather was slightly overcast with a mild breeze. These conditions are typical for my area. The shells cycled flawlessly through my Beretta.
I immediately noticed how smoothly the Federal shells shot. Recoil was manageable, even after firing several rounds in quick succession. There were no malfunctions, and the ejection was consistent.
After the first round of trap, I was impressed. The breaks were clean and decisive, with very few chipped targets. The patterns seemed tight and even, exactly what I was hoping for.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Federal Premium High Over All shells have proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my shotgun, and they continue to perform flawlessly. I’ve had no issues with cycling, ejection, or consistent patterns.
The hulls hold up exceptionally well, showing minimal wear and tear even after multiple reloads. This durability is a significant advantage. It saves me money in the long run because I can reload these shells more times than cheaper alternatives.
Cleaning my shotgun after a session with the Federal shells is straightforward. The powder burns cleanly, leaving minimal residue in the barrel and action. It outperforms other target loads I’ve used in terms of both pattern consistency and reloadability.
Breaking Down the Features of Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge 2 3/4in 1oz 3 1/4 Dram 8.5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition HOA12HC1 8.5 $1.10 Off
Specifications
The Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge ammunition features a 2 3/4-inch shell length. It propels a 1-ounce payload of hard, high-antimony lead shot at a muzzle velocity of 1290 feet per second. This shot is size 8.5.
The “3 1/4 Dram” equivalent refers to the powder charge. This gives a balance between power and recoil, ideal for target shooting. The listed pellet count is approximately 497.
These specifications are crucial for competitive shooting. Consistent velocity and shot size contribute to predictable patterns. This ultimately results in cleaner breaks and higher scores.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium High Over All excels in its primary function: breaking clay targets. Its consistent patterns ensure that a sufficient number of pellets hit the target. This significantly increases the chances of a clean break.
The hard, high-antimony lead shot resists deformation during firing, maintaining a tighter pattern downrange. The Podium wad further enhances pattern consistency. There are no performance weaknesses that I’ve observed during my testing.
This ammunition meets and exceeds my expectations for a premium target load. The clean breaks and consistent performance have improved my scores. I now have more confidence on the range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Federal Premium High Over All is geared towards performance and reloadability. The one-piece Podium wad cushions the payload. It improves pattern consistency.
The solid brass head and tapered hull make reloading easier. This is an important feature for shooters who reload their ammunition. The weight is typical for a 12-gauge shell, and it cycles smoothly in various shotguns.
The design is user-friendly. Even beginners can appreciate the consistent performance. There’s no special technique or adjustment needed to use these shells effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable construction of the Federal Premium High Over All ensures a long lifespan. The solid brass head and sturdy hull can withstand multiple reloads. This makes them a cost-effective choice for frequent shooters.
Maintenance is minimal. The clean-burning powder reduces fouling in the shotgun barrel. This makes cleaning easier. This also extends the life of the firearm.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Federal Premium High Over All ammunition does not require any specific accessories. It is designed to perform optimally in a standard 12-gauge shotgun. However, some shooters may choose to use different chokes.
Different chokes can further tighten or loosen the pattern depending on the target presentation. The Federal Premium High Over All is compatible with any aftermarket choke designed for a 12-gauge shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge 2 3/4in 1oz 3 1/4 Dram 8.5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition HOA12HC1 8.5 $1.10 Off
Pros
- Consistent Patterns: The hard, high-antimony lead shot and Podium wad work together to deliver tight, uniform patterns, increasing the likelihood of clean breaks.
- Reloadability: The solid brass head and tapered hull make reloading easier and allow for more reloads per hull, saving money in the long run.
- Manageable Recoil: The 3 1/4 Dram equivalent powder charge provides a good balance of power and recoil, allowing for comfortable shooting even during extended sessions.
- Clean Burning: The powder burns cleanly, leaving minimal residue in the barrel and action, simplifying cleaning and maintenance.
- Improved Scores: The consistent performance and clean breaks contribute to higher scores and increased confidence on the range.
Cons
- Lead Shot: Not suitable for use in areas where lead shot is prohibited. Those areas require alternatives like steel or bismuth.
- Price: While currently discounted, the Federal Premium High Over All shells are generally more expensive than basic target loads. This may be a deterrent for casual shooters.
Who Should Buy Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge 2 3/4in 1oz 3 1/4 Dram 8.5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition HOA12HC1 8.5 $1.10 Off?
The Federal Premium High Over All ammunition is perfect for competitive trap, skeet, and sporting clays shooters. It is also great for those who prioritize consistent performance and reloadability. Experienced shooters seeking an edge on the range will appreciate the improved patterns and clean breaks.
Casual shooters looking for a budget-friendly option might find these shells too expensive. Those who primarily shoot in areas where lead shot is restricted will need to explore alternative ammunition options.
A must-have accessory is a good quality shotshell reloading press. This will maximize the cost savings of the reloadable hulls. Also, consider using different chokes. These allow adjustments for varying target distances and presentations.
Conclusion on Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge 2 3/4in 1oz 3 1/4 Dram 8.5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition HOA12HC1 8.5 $1.10 Off
The Federal Premium High Over All 12 Gauge shotgun ammunition is a top-tier target load that delivers exceptional performance. Its consistent patterns, reloadability, and manageable recoil make it a favorite among competitive shooters. I have seen improvements in my scores since switching to these shells.
While the price may be higher than basic target loads, the increased consistency and reloadability justify the cost. The durability and clean-burning powder also contribute to the overall value.
I highly recommend the Federal Premium High Over All to any serious shotgun shooter looking for a competitive edge. The current discount of $1.10 off makes it an even more attractive purchase. Head to your nearest retailer or online supplier today and experience the difference for yourself!