Give 'em Federal Premium's 3rd Degree

by
posted on December 24, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Earlier this year, Federal Premiuminventor of the turkey load—announced its latest gobbler-specific shotshell, titled 3rd Degree.

Using a multi-shot, three-stage payload to deliver lethal patterns, 3rd Degree is the company's answer to consumer demands for tighter patterns and longer ranges. The
leading section of the payload—20 percent of the total pellet count—is made up of No. 6
nickel-plated Flitestopper lead. The next 40 percent of the load is copper-plated No. 5 lead shot, which creates a dense, even pattern at moderate ranges. The final 40 percent of 3rd Degree’s payload consists of No. 7 Heavyweight pellets.

The Flitestopper portion is designed for close-range shots, the No. 5 lead shot for mid-range and the No. 7 Heavyweight for long-range. And it's all under one roof, so to speak. As you might have figured out, the three-layer system is what gave birth to the new shotshell's name.

“Its name represents its three stages of payload," Mike Holm, Federal Premium Product Manager, said. "Each stage is made up of different types of shot which are different sizes and different densities. This variety combines to create optimal patterns for three ranges—close, mid and long. ”

Features:

• Three-stage payload creates optimal patterns for the entire range spectrum
• 1,250 fps muzzle velocity
• A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to the National
Wild Turkey Federation

To learn more about the new turkey load, check out the video embedded below.

 

Latest

BTB 7Mm RUM Lead
BTB 7Mm RUM Lead

Behind the Bullet: 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum

Launching a 160-grain bullet in excess of 3200 fps, the 7mm RUM is among the fastest commercially loaded 7mm cartridges available.

USFWS Debuts 2025-2026 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps

The 2025-2026 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp—commonly known as the Duck Stamp—became available for purchase on June 27, 2025.

Tested: Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Digital Associate Editor walks viewers through the features of the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener, the perfect tool for a hunter looking to keep all his knives factory sharp season after season.

Recipe: Green Curried Black Bear

Green curry sauce is an excellent base for simmering bear meat, making it flavorful, tender, and safe to consume. Read on for another instant classic recipe from Brad Fenson.

Coyotes to Competitions: An AR-Build for Accuracy

ARs make great coyote guns. But what would the absolute best coyote rifle look like? Digital Associate Editor David Herman builds his take on the best AR for shooters who like to plug coyotes in the winter, and ring steel all summer long.

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Sunday Hunting Bill

Legislation that will fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban was signed into law on July 9.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.