First Look: Federal 28-Gauge Black Cloud

by
posted on September 25, 2023
** 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. **
MAIN28 Gauge Black Cloud

Federal Ammunition has added two 28-gauge, 3-inch, ¾-ounce loads in shot sizes No. 3 or 4 to its Black Cloud product lineup. 

“When first approached for developing a 28-gauge, 3-inch waterfowl load, Black Cloud was the obvious first choice out of all our product lines” said Federal Shotshell product director Dan Compton. “Black Cloud’s technology blend of Flitestopper Steel, zinc plated Premium steel and Flitecontrol Flex wad really shines in these smaller but highly effective loads. They pattern very tight and hit hard. We are extremely happy with the results.”

That Flitecontrol Flex wad is designed to deliver better pattern density and consistency through both ported and standard waterfowl chokes. This improved density is part of what allows this sub-gauge Black Cloud to shine alongside its full-sized counterparts, keeping its payload together at distances well beyond typical.

“Our Flitestopper steel pellets make up a full 40 percent of the payload, and really help the terminal performance of any sub-gauge,” said Compton. “A raised cutting ridge encircling the exterior gives the pellets an unparalleled ability to slice through feathers and flesh. These specialized pellets create significantly larger wound channels than standard round pellets or other designs, devastating game on impact.”

Other features of the 28-gauge Black Cloud include a 1,400 fps muzzle velocity for ample downrange energy, provided by a clean-burning and temperature stable propellant. Black Cloud's payload is made up of 40-percent Flitestopper steel pellets and 60-percent Premium steel. Finally, a plated head helps inhibit corrosion in damp environments, while a sealed crimp stops moisture in extreme weather. This means Black Cloud will still fire, even if it happens to go for a quick swim while you're fumbling in your blind bag between flights of cupping greenheads. For more information on all products from Federal, visit federalpremium.com. MSRP: $40.99/25-round boxes

 

Latest

LEDEW H2026 08 Knowhow IMG 0478
LEDEW H2026 08 Knowhow IMG 0478

Rethinking Ragù: Venison Ragù Bianco

In Italy, ragù simply refers to a slow-cooked meat sauce. Bolognese—ragù alla Bolognese—is just one regional variation that originated in Bologna and traditionally incorporates tomatoes, wine, milk, and finely minced meat simmered low and slow until deeply rich and complex. But some of the most beautiful ragù dishes in Italy contain little or no tomato at all. This version uses axis deer simply because that’s what I happened to have in the freezer, but this sauce works beautifully with almost any species of venison.

USFWS Releases 2026 Waterfowl Population Survey Results

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has released its 2026 Waterfowl Population Status Report. This report contains results from surveys and population estimation methods conducted by the USFWS, Canadian Wildlife Service and numerous state and provincial partners.

Planning a DIY Antelope Hunt

The tag is drawn. Now what? Here’s how to prepare for your first self-guided antelope hunt.

#SundayGunday: Leupold VX-5HD Gen 2

This #SundayGunday, with rifle seasons coming up across the country, we’re going to talk about an awesome rifle optic from Leupold: the VX-5HD.

Free Recipe Collection Celebrates Hi Mountain Seasonings’ 35th Anniversary

Hi Mountain Seasonings is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a new collection of wild game recipes designed to help hunters make the most of their harvest.

President Trump Defends Hunters and Thanks the NRA

In a historic day at the White House on September 17, President Donald Trump (R) signed an executive order to protect and enhance hunters’ part in the North American Wildlife Conservation Model.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.