Let’s Talk About **Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 19% Off**
The Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition is designed for serious upland bird hunters. Federal has built a reputation on consistent performance, and this offering aims to extend that legacy into the challenging world of upland game. This ammunition promises high velocity, tight patterns, and the knockdown power needed for those tougher birds.
My search for this specific ammunition started with too many frustrating hunts that ended with crippled birds. I was looking for a load that would deliver a consistent pattern at longer ranges, ensuring cleaner, more ethical kills. I needed something that could handle the unpredictable flight patterns of grouse and pheasant.
The Federal Premium Wing Shok comes in a standard 25-round box. My initial impression was positive; the packaging was sturdy, and the shells themselves looked well-made. The copper-plated lead shot gave them a premium feel, and the brass-plated heads suggested reliability.
Compared to other upland loads I’ve used from Remington and Winchester, the Federal Premium Wing Shok stood out due to its advertised high velocity. Many similar loads sacrifice velocity for pattern density, but I wanted both, hoping for longer, more effective shots. I chose this ammunition hoping for a noticeable increase in downrange energy and tighter patterns.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Federal Premium Wing Shok promised a lot, and I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype. I was hoping it was the solution to ending those frustrating hunts once and for all.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 19% Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Federal Premium Wing Shok was on a pheasant hunt in South Dakota. The conditions were typical for late fall: crisp air, a slight breeze, and dry terrain. I was using my trusty Benelli Montefeltro, a lightweight 12-gauge known for its reliability.
The ammunition performed admirably in the field. The high velocity was immediately noticeable; the recoil was a bit sharper than standard loads, but the birds dropped with authority. I found the patterns to be tight and consistent out to about 40 yards.
I didn’t experience any malfunctions during the hunt, which is crucial when chasing fast-moving birds. The shells cycled flawlessly through my Benelli. I was pleased with the initial results, but I wanted to see how it held up under extended use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of hunting and multiple trips to the range, the Federal Premium Wing Shok continued to perform consistently. I ran approximately 200 rounds through my shotgun. I did not experience any failures to feed, eject, or fire.
The shells exhibited no signs of degradation or deformation, even after being stored in my hunting vest for extended periods. Cleaning my shotgun after each use revealed no excessive residue or fouling. Maintenance was simple.
Compared to previous upland loads I’ve used, the Federal Premium Wing Shok definitely outperforms them in terms of downrange energy and consistent patterns. It gave me the confidence to take longer shots. My success rate on upland birds improved noticeably.
Breaking Down the Features of **Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 19% Off**
Specifications
The Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is a 12-gauge shell with a 2 3/4 inch shell length. The muzzle velocity is listed at 1500 ft/s, making it one of the faster upland loads available.
The shot weight is 1 3/8 oz, providing ample payload for consistent patterns and knockdown power. The shot material is copper-plated lead. This helps maintain shot integrity and reduce deformation for tighter patterns. Federal utilizes a centerfire primer style for reliable ignition, and the cartridge case material is brass for smooth extraction.
The fact that this ammunition is not lead-free is a crucial specification for hunters in areas where lead shot is still permitted. The high velocity translates to flatter trajectories and more energy on target. The copper plating ensures the shot stays rounder for longer distances, improving pattern density. The brass casing ensures smooth cycling in semi-automatic shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium Wing Shok performs its job exceptionally well in the field. The ammunition is accurate, reliable, and provides excellent knockdown power on upland birds. The patterns are consistently tight, and the high velocity delivers ample energy even at longer ranges.
The main strength of this ammunition lies in its ability to deliver consistent patterns at longer ranges. It allows for ethical and effective shots on fast-moving birds. One area for potential improvement might be reducing the recoil. It can be a bit stout for smaller shooters.
The Federal Premium Wing Shok exceeded my expectations. It delivered tighter patterns and more consistent performance than other upland loads I’ve used. It’s become my go-to choice for pheasant and grouse hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Federal Premium Wing Shok is a well-designed and robust cartridge. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction is solid. While ammunition doesn’t offer much in the way of ergonomics, the consistent dimensions and smooth brass case contribute to reliable feeding and ejection.
The smooth brass case and consistent crimp ensure smooth cycling in semi-automatic shotguns. The clear markings on the shell make it easy to identify the load type and shot size. There isn’t any learning curve when it comes to using this ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
The Federal Premium Wing Shok is designed to be durable and reliable under various conditions. The brass case resists corrosion. The copper-plated shot helps prevent deformation.
The ammunition requires no maintenance beyond proper storage. It should last for years if kept in a cool, dry place. Cleaning your shotgun after use is the only real maintenance needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Federal Premium Wing Shok itself doesn’t offer any customization options. Ammunition is what it is. However, you can optimize your shotgun’s performance by choosing the appropriate choke tube for your hunting situation.
The ammunition is compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4 inch shells. Choke selection will impact pattern density and range. Some shooters might find a recoil pad helpful to mitigate the increased recoil of the high-velocity load.
Pros and Cons of **Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 19% Off**
Pros
- High Velocity: Delivers flatter trajectories and more downrange energy.
- Consistent Patterns: Copper-plated lead shot ensures tight and reliable patterns.
- Reliable Ignition: Centerfire primers provide consistent and dependable performance.
- Smooth Cycling: Brass-plated heads ensure smooth feeding and ejection.
- Effective Knockdown Power: 1 3/8 oz payload for ethical and efficient kills.
Cons
- Increased Recoil: High velocity can result in more felt recoil, which might be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Not Lead-Free: This ammunition is not suitable for areas where lead shot is prohibited.
Who Should Buy **Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 19% Off**?
The Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition is perfect for upland bird hunters who demand consistent performance and extended range. It is also well-suited for those who hunt in areas where lead shot is still permitted. The high velocity and tight patterns make it an excellent choice for pheasant, grouse, and quail hunting.
This product might not be ideal for recoil-sensitive shooters or those hunting in lead-free zones. Hunters who primarily hunt at very close ranges may not need the extra velocity and might prefer a load with a wider pattern.
Consider using aftermarket chokes designed for lead shot to further optimize patterns with the Federal Premium Wing Shok. A quality recoil pad can also help mitigate the increased recoil.
Conclusion on **Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 19% Off**
Overall, the Federal Premium Wing Shok 12 Gauge 1 3/8oz Upland High Velocity Shotgun Ammunition is an excellent choice for serious upland bird hunters. The price is justified by the consistent performance, extended range, and reliable knockdown power it delivers. The Federal Premium Wing Shok offers good value and is frequently offered Up to 19% Off!
I would absolutely recommend this ammunition to any upland hunter looking for a high-performance load. If you’re tired of crippled birds and inconsistent patterns, give the Federal Premium Wing Shok a try. You won’t be disappointed.