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

Lead Photo H2H
Lead Photo H2H

Head to Head: The 9.3x62 vs. 9.3x74R

A battle of 9.3mms. While this particular caliber never really caught on here in the states, it may be time for this old safari favorite to find its way into a few more gunrooms. Check out more about them here.

RCBS Released 7mm Backcountry Reloading Die

RCBS has announced the launch of its new 7mm Backcountry Die Set. Engineered specifically to meet the demands of reloading this high-performance cartridge, the RCBS 7mm Backcountry Die Set is a unique three-die system that includes a neck sizer die, expander die and bullet seater die. The set delivers enhanced control, consistency and accuracy when reloading the 7mm BC and the patented Peak alloy cartridge case.

Hodgdon Launches Accurate High Country Powder for 7mm Backcountry

Hodgdon Powder Company have introduced Accurate High Country, an all-new spherical rifle propellant engineered for the performance demands of today's modern magnum cartridges, including Federal's new 7mm Backcountry.

IWC and Guidefitter Honor 2026 Game Warden of the Year

International Wildlife Crimestoppers (IWC), in partnership with Guidefitter, named Senior Conservation Officer Meghan Roos of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game the recipient of the 2026 IWC Guidefitter Game Warden of the Year Award. Officer Roos received the award during International Wildlife Crimestoppers’ annual conference in July.

#SundayGunday: Chiappa USA Rhino 60DS

On this week's #SudnayGunday, we’re checking out the Chiappa Rhino 60 DS. All it takes is once glance to tell this is not your granddad’s revolver. Chiappa has flipped the script on wheelguns quite literally, aligning the barrel with the bottommost chamber of the cylinder, rather than the top. This low bore axis makes the gun recoil directly back into the hand, rather than pulling the muzzle up and away from your grip. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Shooting Close: How to Play the Short Game

The trend these days is to “go long” but the truth is, if you’re doing it right, most shots taken by hunters are anything but long range. You’re better off practicing your short game.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.