Federal Black Cloud FS Steel 12 Gauge 3" #4 shot delivers the devastating downrange performance waterfowl hunters demand, combining the legendary FlightControl wad system with premium steel shot for lethal, consistent patterns in any conditions.
- FlightControl wad produces tight, dense patterns through ported and standard chokes
- Rear-deploying petals separate payload from wad at the optimal moment
- Side-mounted vents stimulate shot payload for superior pattern consistency
- High-performance primer ignites reliably in cold, wet hunting conditions
- Clean-burning, temperature-stable propellant dramatically reduces barrel residue
- Sealed crimp locks out moisture to protect shell integrity in extreme weather
Who This Is For
Federal Black Cloud 12 Gauge #4 Steel is purpose-built for serious waterfowl hunters pursuing ducks and geese at moderate to extended ranges. Whether you're hunting flooded timber, open marshes, or over decoys on big water, this load's 1-1/4 oz payload of #4 steel shot delivers the pattern density and knockdown energy needed for clean, ethical kills. It's an excellent choice for hunters running semi-automatic or pump-action shotguns who demand a shell that performs consistently from the first cold morning of the season to the last.
Specifications
| Brand | Federal |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3 Inches |
| Shot Size | #4 Steel |
| Payload Weight | 1-1/4 oz |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,450 fps (approx.) |
| Wad Type | FlightControl FS Steel |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Application | Waterfowl Hunting |
| Choke Compatibility | Ported & Standard Waterfowl Chokes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What game is Federal Black Cloud #4 Steel best suited for?
Federal Black Cloud in #4 steel shot is optimized for duck hunting, particularly medium to large species like mallards, pintails, and specklebellies at typical decoy distances of 20–45 yards. The dense FlightControl patterns and 1-1/4 oz payload provide the pellet count and energy needed for clean kills without over-choked patterns that can damage meat.
Can I use Federal Black Cloud through any choke tube?
Yes — one of Black Cloud's key advantages is that its FlightControl wad is engineered to deliver tight, consistent patterns through both ported and standard waterfowl chokes. For best results, Federal recommends using a choke no tighter than Modified (for steel shot), and always ensure your choke is rated for steel shot use before shooting.
How does the FlightControl wad improve performance over standard steel loads?
Unlike conventional wads that separate from the shot column immediately at the muzzle, the FlightControl wad's rear-opening petals and side vents control the separation point, keeping the payload intact longer for a more uniform, high-density pattern downrange. The result is noticeably fewer holes in your pattern and more consistent energy on target compared to standard steel waterfowl loads.
- Caliber:
- 12 GA
- Shell Length:
- 3"
- Shot Size:
- #4
- Bullet Weight:
- 1 1/4 oz
- Purpose:
- Waterfowl
- Type:
- Shotgun Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No