Federal's Black Cloud FS Steel in 28 gauge, 3" shell loaded with ¾ oz of #3 shot brings the brand's most advanced waterfowl technology to the smaller-gauge hunter, delivering devastatingly tight patterns and consistent terminal performance on ducks and geese.
- FLITECONTROL FLEX wad produces tight, consistent patterns through ported and standard chokes
- 40% FLITESTOPPER steel pellets create larger wound channels for cleaner, more ethical kills
- 60% Premium steel pellets fill patterns densely for maximum downrange pellet count
- High-performance primer ignites reliably in cold, wet waterfowl hunting conditions
- Clean-burning, temperature-stable propellant reduces barrel residue after heavy field use
- 3" shell length maximizes payload capacity in 28-gauge chambered shotguns
Who This Is For
This load is purpose-built for dedicated waterfowl hunters who shoot a 28-gauge and refuse to sacrifice performance for gauge preference. Whether you're working timber holes for wood ducks or decoying teal over shallow marshes, Federal Black Cloud 28 ga #3 steel delivers the pattern density and penetration needed for confident, ethical shots at moderate to close range. It's also an excellent choice for hunters looking to introduce younger or recoil-sensitive shooters to waterfowl hunting without stepping up to a heavier gauge.
Specifications
| Brand | Federal |
|---|---|
| Series | Black Cloud FS Steel |
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3 Inches |
| Shot Weight | ¾ oz |
| Shot Size | #3 Steel |
| Shot Type | 40% FLITESTOPPER / 60% Premium Steel |
| Wad | FLITECONTROL FLEX |
| Velocity | ~1,300 fps (est.) |
| Rounds per Box | 25 |
| Intended Use | Waterfowl Hunting |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Federal Black Cloud 28 gauge #3 steel safe to use with my choke?
Yes — Federal Black Cloud FS Steel is compatible with both standard (non-ported) and ported waterfowl chokes thanks to the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad, which is specifically engineered to perform through either choke style. However, you should always use a choke rated for steel shot. Avoid using full or extra-full chokes with steel ammunition, as the lack of constriction relief can damage your barrel or choke tube. An Improved Cylinder or Modified choke rated for steel shot is typically recommended for optimal pattern performance with this load.
What birds and ranges is Federal Black Cloud 28 ga #3 best suited for?
The ¾ oz payload of #3 steel shot makes this load an excellent choice for puddle ducks such as mallards, teal, and wood ducks at close to moderate ranges — generally inside 35–40 yards. The FLITESTOPPER pellet mix enhances wound channel size, helping offset the lighter payload of the 28 gauge compared to larger gauges. For larger waterfowl like Canada geese or long-range pass shooting, a heavier gauge or larger shot size would be more appropriate.
How does the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad differ from a standard wad?
Unlike a conventional wad that opens from the front, the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad features rear-deploying petals and side-mounted vents that control the timing of payload separation after leaving the muzzle. This design keeps the shot column together longer and allows for a cleaner, more uniform release — resulting in tighter, more consistent patterns. The "FLEX" designation means this wad is optimized to work correctly through both ported and non-ported chokes, giving hunters versatility without sacrificing pattern quality.
- Caliber:
- 28 GA
- Shell Length:
- 3"
- Shot Size:
- 3/4 oz
- Bullet Weight:
- #3
- Type:
- Shotgun Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 25
- Case Quantity:
- 250
- Lead Free:
- No