Let’s Talk About Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 $2.30 Off
The Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 promises a reliable and corrosion-resistant waterfowl hunting experience. This ammunition, manufactured by Kent Cartridge, aims to provide optimal velocities for consistent patterns, ensuring that hunters can depend on it in various weather conditions.
I’ve spent countless hours wading through marshes and shivering in duck blinds, only to be let down by inconsistent ammo. My main concern was finding a load that could handle the harsh environments and still deliver reliable knockdown power on waterfowl, leading me to explore the Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0.
Upon receiving the shells, the first thing I noticed was the clean, consistent crimp and the nickel-plated case head, giving the impression of quality. The shells felt solid, not flimsy, and the packaging indicated a focus on weather resistance, an attribute paramount for waterfowl hunting.
Compared to budget steel loads from other manufacturers, like the Winchester Super X or Federal Speed-Shok, the Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 had a noticeably cleaner appearance and a more robust feel. I hoped this translated to better performance and reliability in the field. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; if these shells performed as good as they looked, I might have found my new go-to waterfowl load.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 $2.30 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 during a late-season duck hunt in the flooded timber of Arkansas. The conditions were typical: damp, cold, and muddy, the perfect environment to challenge ammunition’s reliability.
The shells cycled flawlessly through my Benelli Super Black Eagle II, a semi-automatic shotgun known for its reliability but also somewhat picky about ammunition. I experienced no jams or misfires, even after several hours in the humid environment. The recoil was noticeable, as expected with a 3″ shell, but manageable and consistent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 for an entire waterfowl season, I can confidently say it has held up remarkably well. I didn’t observe any signs of significant wear and tear on the unfired shells, even those that spent time in my marsh bag.
Cleaning my shotgun after each hunt revealed minimal residue compared to some cheaper steel loads I’ve used in the past. This suggests a cleaner-burning powder and less fouling of the barrel, leading to easier maintenance and improved long-term reliability. This has outperformed the cheaper stuff for sure.
Breaking Down the Features of Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 $2.30 Off
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kent Cartridge
- Gauge: 12
- Number of Rounds: 10
- Shot Size: 1
- Shell Length: 3 in
- Muzzle Velocity: 1500 ft/s
- Application: Waterfowl
- Included Accessories: None
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz
- Shot Material: Steel
- Primer Style: Centerfire
- Cartridge Case Material: Steel
- Lead Free: Yes
These specifications paint a clear picture of the Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 as a waterfowl-specific load designed for optimal performance. The 1500 ft/s muzzle velocity ensures sufficient energy for clean kills at reasonable distances, and the 1 1/4 oz shot weight provides a dense pattern for consistent hits.
Performance & Functionality
The Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 performs admirably, delivering consistent patterns and reliable knockdown power on ducks and geese. I found that it patterned best through my improved modified choke, providing a tight and even spread at around 40 yards.
The consistent velocities, thanks to the high-performance base wad and CX2000 primer, resulted in predictable shots and fewer cripples. While some may find the recoil stout, the overall performance and reliability of the Fasteel 2.0 far outweigh this minor drawback.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 is designed with functionality in mind. The nickel-plated case head not only looks good but also aids in smooth extraction and corrosion resistance, critical in wet hunting environments.
The shells load smoothly into the magazine and chamber without any noticeable issues.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the steel cartridge case material and nickel-plated case head, these shells are built to withstand harsh conditions. The minimal residue left behind after firing indicates a clean-burning powder, reducing the need for frequent and intensive shotgun cleaning.
With proper storage in a dry environment, these shells should last for years without any degradation in performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 is ammunition and doesn’t have any specific accessories or customization options. However, its performance can be optimized by using the correct choke tube for the specific hunting situation.
The ammunition is compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 3″ shells and designed to shoot steel shot.
Pros and Cons of Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 $2.30 Off
Pros
- Reliable Performance: Consistent patterns and clean kills on waterfowl.
- Corrosion Resistance: Nickel-plated case head and steel cartridge case ensure durability in wet conditions.
- Clean Burning: Leaves minimal residue in the barrel, simplifying maintenance.
- Consistent Velocities: High-performance base wad and CX2000 primer ensure predictable shot patterns.
- Functions Reliably in Semi-Automatics: Designed for smooth cycling in modern shotguns.
Cons
- Recoil: The 3″ shell with 1 1/4 oz payload generates significant recoil, which may be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than budget steel loads, but the performance justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 $2.30 Off?
The Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand reliable performance in challenging conditions. It’s also ideal for semi-automatic shotgun owners looking for ammunition that cycles smoothly and consistently.
Those who are recoil-sensitive or on a very tight budget might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory would be a quality recoil pad for your shotgun.
Conclusion on Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 12 Gauge 1-1/4oz 3” 1 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K123FS36-1 $2.30 Off
The Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 is a high-quality waterfowl load that delivers on its promises of reliability, performance, and corrosion resistance. The price is justified by the consistent patterns, clean-burning powder, and smooth cycling in semi-automatic shotguns.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kent Cartridge Fasteel 2.0 to any serious waterfowl hunter looking for a dependable load. Gear up, get out there, and experience the difference that quality ammunition can make!