The Federal Premium Ultra Steel 20 Gauge 3-inch 1 oz #3 & #5 Duplex Steel Shot 25-round box is a high-performance non-toxic shotshell engineered specifically to maximize pattern fill, downrange kinetic energy, and terminal lethality for duck and waterfowl hunting in sub-gauge shotguns. A primary historical limitation when shooting steel shot in a 20-gauge platform is balancing pellet count with individual pellet energy—single-size larger shot lacks the pattern density to hit fast-moving birds consistently, while smaller single-size shot lacks the momentum to penetrate dense waterfowl plumage at distance. Federal Premium resolves this classic ballistics compromise by stacking a dual-size duplex shot column, combining heavier #3 steel pellets for long-range penetration with higher-count #5 steel pellets to fill pattern voids.
The technical advantage focuses on tight, predictable pattern cohesion paired with aerodynamic payload control. Launching its 1 oz duplex shot column at a high velocity of 1,400 FPS, this 3-inch magnum load delivers short shot strings and minimal lead requirements on fast-flying ducks. Mechanically, the specialized FLITECONTROL FLEX wad deploys rear brake fins upon exiting the muzzle, separating cleanly from the shot column without disturbing pellet geometry—performing flawlessly through both standard and ported waterfowl chokes. Furthermore, the steel pellets feature a zinc plating that resists rust in wet salt-marsh conditions and prevents pellets from fusing inside the wad during ignition.
Moving its 1 oz duplex payload at 1,400 FPS, this specialized 20-gauge waterfowl cartridge is optimized for smooth, non-binding mechanical operation across modern semi-automatic and pump-action hunting shotguns. Assembled in high-strength, moisture-resistant plastic hulls fitted with non-corrosive primer formulations and clean-burning propellants, it maintains stable pressure curves and high velocity even in freezing winter blinds. The precision-drawn, high-brass head ensures positive shell rim engagement, clean gas sealing, and effortless, reliable hull extraction during fast follow-up shots.
Key Benefits
- Dual-Size Duplex Shot Payload (#3 & #5): Combines heavy #3 steel for bone-breaking penetration with high-count #5 steel for full pattern coverage.
- FLITECONTROL FLEX Wad System: Rear-deploying wad controls shot separation for tight, dense patterns through standard and ported chokes.
- Zinc-Plated Non-Toxic Steel Pellets: Corrosion-resistant coating prevents pellet rust and adhesion for uniform stringing and environmental compliance.
- High-Velocity 1,400 FPS Output: High-speed payload shortens downrange lead times and delivers hard-hitting kinetic energy on waterfowl.
Technical Specification
- Ballistics: 20 Gauge | 3-Inch Shell Length | 1,400 FPS Muzzle Velocity | Non-Toxic Waterfowl Profile
- Payload: 1 oz Shot Weight | Duplex Shot Column (#3 Steel & #5 Steel) | Zinc-Plated Steel Pellets
- Wad/Hull: FLITECONTROL FLEX Wad | Moisture-Resistant Plastic Hull | High-Brass Head
- Logistics: 25 Rounds Per Box | Federal Premium Ultra Steel Series
- Dimensions: 20 Gauge 3" Chamber Geometry | Semi-Auto & Pump-Action Shotgun Configuration | SKU: PWUX20935
- Application: Waterfowl Hunting, Duck Hunting, Puddle Ducks, Diver Ducks, and Non-Toxic Marsh Zones
- Standards: 100% Non-Toxic Steel Compliant | SAAMI Compliant | Federal Premium Factory Precision Benchmarks
Secure consistent pattern density and penetration with Federal Premium Ultra Steel 20 Gauge loads from SMKW, a trusted source for performance-driven hunting ammunition.
