FEDERAL VSHOK - 12 GA - 3.5" - #00 BUCK - 18 PEL - 5 RDS/BOX
FederalThe Federal Premium Vital-Shok 12 Gauge 3.5" #00 Buckshot delivers elite-level shotgun performance engineered for hunters and serious shooters who demand tight patterns, deep penetration, and devastating stopping power on large game and predators.
- Copper-plated pellets reduce deformation for tighter, more consistent downrange patterns
- 18-pellet payload maximizes target coverage and transfer of energy on impact
- Buffering compound fills voids between pellets to prevent in-bore deformation
- Dense, uniform patterns deliver reliable stopping power on hogs, deer, and predators
- 3.5" magnum shell generates impressive velocity and energy for long-range effectiveness
- Trusted Federal Premium quality control ensures shot-to-shot consistency across the box
Who This Is For
This load is purpose-built for hunters pursuing whitetail deer, feral hogs, and large predators at close to moderate ranges, as well as serious home-defense shooters who want a magnum-grade buckshot option. If you run a 3.5" capable 12-gauge and need the absolute maximum in pellet count and energy transfer, the Federal Vital-Shok #00 Buck is the load to reach for when the stakes are high.
Specifications
| Brand | Federal Premium |
|---|---|
| Series | Vital-Shok |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3.5 Inches |
| Shot Size | #00 Buckshot |
| Pellet Count | 18 Pellets |
| Shot Material | Copper-Plated Lead |
| Buffered | Yes |
| Rounds Per Box | 5 |
| Intended Use | Hunting, Predator Control |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Federal Vital-Shok #00 Buck better than standard buckshot loads?
Federal Vital-Shok uses copper-plated pellets combined with a buffering compound that fills the spaces between pellets inside the shell. This two-part approach prevents pellet deformation during the firing process, resulting in rounder, more uniform pellets exiting the muzzle. The payoff is a noticeably tighter pattern and more consistent energy delivery compared to unbuffered, unplated buckshot loads — critical when every pellet on target counts.
Is this load suitable for deer hunting, and what range is it effective at?
Yes — the Federal Vital-Shok 3.5" #00 Buck with 18 pellets is an excellent deer hunting load. The magnum shell length and high pellet count make it particularly effective inside 50 yards, where patterns remain dense enough to ensure multiple pellet hits on vitals. Always pattern your specific shotgun before hunting season, as choke selection and barrel length significantly affect downrange pattern density.
Will my shotgun chamber a 3.5" shell, and does it matter for this load?
Only shotguns specifically rated for 3.5" shells can safely fire this ammunition — check your owner's manual or the barrel markings on your firearm before purchasing. Common 3.5"-capable models include the Mossberg 835 and 935, Remington SP-10, and many Browning and Beretta waterfowl guns. Never attempt to fire a 3.5" shell in a gun chambered only for 2¾" or 3" shells, as doing so is unsafe and can cause serious injury.
- Caliber:
- 12 GA
- Shell Length:
- 3.5"
- Shot Size:
- #00 BUCK
- Bullet Weight:
- 18 PEL
- Purpose:
- Large Game
- Type:
- Shotgun Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 5
- Case Quantity:
- 50
- Lead Free:
- No