Federal Prairie Storm FS Steel 12 Gauge shotgun shells deliver premium waterfowl performance by combining two of Federal's most advanced technologies into a single, hard-hitting steel load designed for clean, ethical harvests in the field.
- High-velocity 3" shell launching 1-1/8 oz of steel shot at blistering speeds
- FlightControl wad holds the payload together longer for tighter, consistent patterns
- Flightstopper steel pellets feature a distinct shape that maximizes energy transfer on impact
- 50/50 mix of standard and Flightstopper steel pellets optimizes downrange pattern density
- Delivers comparable 40-yard velocity and energy to traditional lead waterfowl loads
- Puts over 75% of pellets inside a 30-inch circle at 40 yards for reliable kill-zone coverage
Who This Is For
Federal Prairie Storm FS Steel is purpose-built for serious waterfowl hunters who demand consistent, hard-hitting patterns on ducks and geese. Whether you're working a flooded timber blind or hunting open water, the #3 steel shot size and 3-inch hull make this load an excellent choice for medium-to-large waterfowl at moderate-to-extended ranges. It's ideal for hunters seeking a steel load that genuinely rivals the performance of traditional lead without sacrificing downrange effectiveness.
Specifications
| Brand | Federal |
|---|---|
| Product Line | Prairie Storm FS Steel |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3 Inches |
| Shot Size | #3 Steel |
| Payload Weight | 1-1/8 oz |
| Pellet Type | 50% Standard Steel / 50% Flightstopper Steel |
| Wad Technology | FlightControl Wad |
| Pattern Performance | 75%+ in 30" circle at 40 yards |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Shot Material | Steel (Non-Toxic) |
| Intended Use | Waterfowl Hunting |
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of waterfowl is the #3 steel shot size best suited for?
#3 steel shot is a versatile mid-range waterfowl option that performs well on mallards, pintails, teal, and similarly sized ducks. It also carries enough energy for early-season geese at closer distances. The 1-1/8 oz payload in this 3-inch shell gives you a dense pellet count that makes #3 an excellent all-around duck hunting choice.
What makes FlightControl and Flightstopper technology different from standard steel loads?
Standard steel wads release their payload quickly after leaving the barrel, which can open patterns prematurely. Federal's FlightControl wad stays with the shot column longer, then peels away cleanly to produce tighter, more uniform patterns. Flightstopper pellets feature a unique hollow-point-style cavity that causes irregular tumbling and maximizes energy transfer upon impact — making each pellet more effective than a standard round steel ball.
Is this ammunition safe to use in all 12-gauge shotguns?
Federal Prairie Storm FS Steel is safe for use in any 12-gauge shotgun rated for 3-inch shells and approved for steel shot. If you're shooting a vintage or fixed-choke shotgun, verify that your barrel and choke are rated for steel before use. For best patterning results with FlightControl wads, Federal recommends using an Improved Cylinder or Modified choke rather than a Full or Extra-Full constriction.
- Caliber:
- 12 GA
- Shell Length:
- 3"
- Shot Size:
- 1 1/8 oz
- Bullet Weight:
- #3
- Type:
- Shotgun Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No