First Look: Federal Hi-Bird Fiber Wad

by
posted on October 6, 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. **
Mainhi Bird Fiber Wad

Federal Ammunition announces a new line extension to its Hi-Bird upland-game-hunting product line. Hi-Bird Fiber (Paper) Wad’s cellulose wad construction helps minimize plastic left in the field, yet still promises to offer the same hard-hitting performance as the original. It does this by utilizing two-piece, SoftCell construction, which decreases recoil while still maintaining patterns at distance.

“The patented design of the fiber over-powder wad creates an effective gas seal, and the paper shot cup is designed to prevent barrel/shot contact and improve pattern performance,” said Dan Compton, Federal shotshell product line director. “Additionally, the overall fiber/paper wad system design helps reduce a shooter’s environmental impact on high-volume shoots.”

The 12-gauge, No. 5 load’s high velocity (1,330 fps) and specially formulated lead shot—blended for optimal hardness—produce downrange energy and pattern density that efficiently takes down birds at most any commonly shootable distances. The 2 3/4-inch shotshells propel a 1 1/4 ounce load to devastating effect, particularly on pigeons, doves and upland game. Five-shot lead in particular provides a good balance between hard-hitting performance for larger birds like pheasants, and pellet count for larger patterns overall.

“This new product was motivated by a customer need, because certain ranges and areas are beginning to require plastic-free wadding,” continued Compton. “We also offer the paper wad in cartridges tailored for the dove hunting and sporting target market, such as our Upland Steel and Top Gun loads.”

While currently only available in 12-gauge, there is room for Federal to expand its offerings, much as they have done with other upland loads like Upland High Velocity and Upland Pheasants Forever, so sub-gauge enthusiasts should keep a weather eye. For more information on Federal Hi-Bird Fiber Wad, available in boxes of 25, visit federalpremium.com, where these and other Federal products are also available for purchase. MSRP: $24.99

Latest

Ledeservice Awards More Than
Ledeservice Awards More Than

More Than $6.6 Million in Tribal Wildlife Grants to Advance Conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is awarding more than $6.6 million to federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native tribes to benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. This year’s funding will support 35 tribes for conservation projects across 15 states, benefiting a wide range of wildlife and habitat, including species of cultural or traditional importance to Indigenous communities.

Hardware Review: TriStar KR.22

TriStar is noted for shotguns, but Bryce Towsley recently received a test gun from them that’s much different. Check out his review on the TriStar KR.22.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras' Security Tree Strap

Browning Trail Cameras has released a Security Tree Strap, a durable and dependable mounting solution to keep trail cameras in place in nearly any environment.

Proof Research Introduces PXT Rifle Barrel Technology

Proof Research has launched Proof Exponential Twist (PXT), an advancement in rifling that promises to improve durability, accuracy and shootability. Further, Proof has backed this new technology with extensive military testing and research. Engineered to meet the demands of modern high-pressure ammunition, PXT is billed as delivering longer barrel life, improved consistency and enhanced performance.  

Ammo Analysis: So You Like 'em Heavy?

Phil Massaro discusses what might make someone opt for a heavy-for-caliber choice when taking on game.

New for 2026: Steiner eDiscovery 10x42 Binoculars with Integrated Camera

Steiner Optics has introduced the eDiscovery 10x42 binoculars, combining clarity and durability with a fully integrated 4K camera.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.