Let’s Talk About **Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
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Turkey hunting is a religion in my family, and finding the right load can make or break a season. The Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
PTDX258 567 16% Off caught my eye with its innovative three-stage payload and promise of lethal performance at varying ranges. It’s designed to handle everything from that gobbler that sneaks in close to the one that hangs up at 40+ yards, boasting a combination of lead, FLITESTOPPER lead, and HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot for a truly versatile turkey load.
I was looking for a 20-gauge shell that offered both close-range forgiveness and long-range punch. Many standard turkey loads pattern too tightly up close, leading to missed opportunities on birds that appear suddenly. I needed a shell that could perform consistently at different distances.
The moment I picked up the box, I could tell this wasn’t your average turkey load. The packaging proudly displays the MeatEater logo, and the shells themselves look meticulously crafted. The build quality appears excellent, and they feel substantial, hinting at the heavy payload within.
I considered other options like Winchester Long Beard XR and Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend, but the Federal Premium 3rd Degree stood out for its unique multi-stage payload and FLITECONTROL FLEX wad. I was intrigued by the concept of a single shell handling close-in and extended-range shots. I believed this could simplify my setup and increase my confidence in the field.
My initial reaction was excitement, tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. I was eager to see if the Federal Premium 3rd Degree’s multi-stage payload lived up to the hype and delivered on its promise of all-range performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I tested the Federal Premium 3rd Degree at my local shooting range, patterning it through my Mossberg 500 20-gauge with a variety of chokes, from improved cylinder to extra full turkey chokes. I wanted to see how the patterns behaved at 10, 20, 30, and 40 yards.
The weather was typical for early spring – a bit chilly and drizzly. These conditions can affect patterning, so I made sure to wipe down the barrel between shots. I wanted consistent results.
The Federal Premium 3rd Degree was remarkably easy to use. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad seemed to do its job, producing consistent and surprisingly forgiving patterns across different distances. There was no steep learning curve.
The biggest surprise was the pattern density at 40 yards. I expected some thinning out at that range, but the HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot maintained a tight, lethal core.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of practice and patterning sessions, I felt confident in the Federal Premium 3rd Degree’s reliability. I ran dozens of shells through my shotgun with zero malfunctions.
The shells held up well to storage and handling, showing no signs of deterioration or damage. The plastic hulls remained intact, and the crimps stayed tight.
Maintenance was minimal; I simply wiped down the bore after each range session. The Federal Premium 3rd Degree consistently outperformed standard lead turkey loads in terms of pattern density and downrange energy.
Breaking Down the Features of **Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
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Specifications
The Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge is a 3-inch shell with a 1 7/16 oz payload. It features a unique blend of No. 5 copper-plated lead, No. 6 FLITESTOPPER lead, and No. 7 HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot.
- Gauge: 20
- Shell Length: 3 inches
- Shot Weight: 1 7/16 oz
- Shot Sizes: 5, 6, and 7
- Muzzle Velocity: 1100 ft/s
- Shot Material: Copper-plated Lead, FLITESTOPPER Lead, and Tungsten (HEAVYWEIGHT TSS)
- Pellet Count: Approximately 285
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the shell’s performance and versatility. The combination of shot sizes and materials creates a forgiving close-range pattern while maintaining long-range lethality. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad ensures consistent patterns across different chokes.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium 3rd Degree performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The multi-stage payload effectively handles varying distances, eliminating the need to switch shells based on the range of the bird.
The strengths lie in its pattern density, especially at extended ranges, and its forgiving nature at close range. One potential weakness is the price; HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot comes at a premium.
It exceeded my expectations by delivering consistent patterns and lethal downrange energy. It significantly boosted my confidence in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The shells are well-constructed with a sturdy plastic hull and a tight crimp. The weight feels balanced, contributing to smooth cycling in my pump-action shotgun.
The Federal Premium 3rd Degree requires no special handling or techniques. It is a user-friendly load that performs consistently with minimal adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
The shells are designed for single-use and should be stored in a cool, dry place. The plastic hulls are resistant to moisture and minor impacts.
Maintenance involves ensuring the shotgun’s bore is clean after use to maintain consistent performance. The Federal Premium 3rd Degree is a relatively low-maintenance ammunition option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Federal Premium 3rd Degree is designed to work with a variety of turkey chokes. I found that an extra full turkey choke provided the tightest patterns at longer ranges.
It is compatible with most 20-gauge shotguns designed to shoot 3-inch shells. There are no specific accessories required.
Pros and Cons of **Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
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Pros
- Versatile multi-stage payload for close and long-range performance. This eliminates the need to switch shells in different hunting scenarios.
- Excellent pattern density, especially at 40+ yards. The HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot ensures a lethal dose of pellets on target.
- FLITECONTROL FLEX wad for consistent patterns across different chokes. This provides flexibility and reduces the need for extensive choke testing.
- Chosen by MeatEater’s Steven Rinella. The endorsement from a respected hunter adds credibility.
- A portion of proceeds are donated to the National Wild Turkey Federation. Supporting conservation efforts is a positive aspect.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard lead turkey loads. The cost of HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot increases the overall expense.
- Recoil can be noticeable due to the heavy payload. This may be a concern for smaller-framed shooters.
Who Should Buy **Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
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The Federal Premium 3rd Degree is perfect for turkey hunters who want a versatile, high-performance load that can handle a variety of hunting scenarios. It is also suitable for hunters who prioritize pattern density and long-range lethality.
This product may not be the best choice for budget-conscious hunters or those who are sensitive to recoil. Hunters who primarily hunt in areas with only close-range shots may find standard lead loads sufficient.
A quality turkey choke, such as an extra full choke designed for HEAVYWEIGHT TSS shot, is a must-have accessory to maximize the Federal Premium 3rd Degree’s performance.
Conclusion on **Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
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The Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 1 7/16oz 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS Shotgun Ammunition
PTDX258 567 16% Off is a game-changer for turkey hunting. Its innovative multi-stage payload and consistent patterns make it a top-tier choice for serious hunters.
While the price is higher than standard loads, the performance and versatility justify the cost. The increased pattern density and forgiving nature at close range make this shell a worthwhile investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Federal Premium 3rd Degree to any turkey hunter looking to improve their odds in the field. Give it a try this season and experience the difference for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!