Federal Black Cloud FS Steel 12 Gauge 2.75" #2 shot delivers elite-level waterfowl performance, combining the legendary FlightControl wad system with premium steel shot for devastating downrange patterns on ducks and geese.
- FlightControl wad delivers tight, consistent patterns through ported and standard chokes
- Rear-deploying petals separate payload from wad at the optimal moment
- Side-mounted vents stimulate payload for maximum pattern density and lethality
- High-performance primer ignites cleanly across a wide range of temperatures
- Clean-burning, temperature-stable propellant drastically reduces barrel residue
- Sealed crimp locks out moisture for reliable performance in harsh field conditions
Who This Is For
Federal Black Cloud FS Steel is purpose-built for serious waterfowl hunters who demand consistent, hard-hitting patterns on every shot. Whether you're hunting early-season teal or late-season honkers from a flooded timber blind, this 1-1/8 oz load of #2 steel shot offers the versatility and performance to handle a wide range of waterfowl at ethical hunting distances. It's an excellent choice for hunters running both standard and ported choke systems who refuse to sacrifice pattern quality.
Specifications
| Brand | Federal |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 2.75" |
| Shot Size | #2 Steel |
| Payload Weight | 1-1/8 oz |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Wad System | FlightControl FS |
| Shot Material | Steel (non-toxic) |
| Choke Compatibility | Ported & Standard Waterfowl Chokes |
| Use | Waterfowl Hunting |
Frequently Asked Questions
What waterfowl is #2 steel shot best suited for?
#2 steel shot is a highly versatile waterfowl load that performs well on mid-size to large ducks such as mallards, pintails, and widgeon, as well as smaller Canada geese at moderate ranges. Its larger pellet diameter compared to #3 or #4 steel provides more energy per pellet at distance, making it a go-to choice when birds are working at the outer edge of decoy range.
Can I use Federal Black Cloud FS Steel through my existing waterfowl choke?
Yes. One of the standout features of Federal Black Cloud FS Steel is its FlightControl wad, which is engineered to deliver tight, consistent patterns through both standard and ported waterfowl chokes. This makes it compatible with a wide range of shotgun choke systems without requiring a dedicated aftermarket choke, though results may vary slightly by choke brand and constriction.
How does the FlightControl wad improve performance over traditional steel loads?
Traditional wads release the shot payload early in flight, allowing pellets to scatter widely before reaching the target. The FlightControl wad's rear-deploying petals and side-mounted vents delay wad separation until the ideal moment, keeping the payload together longer for noticeably denser, more uniform patterns. The result is more pellets on target at typical waterfowl hunting distances, which translates directly to cleaner kills and fewer crippled birds.
- Caliber:
- 12 GA
- Shell Length:
- 2.75"
- Shot Size:
- #2
- Bullet Weight:
- 1 1/8 oz
- Purpose:
- Waterfowl
- Type:
- Shotgun Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No