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

001 Sw3gun Cover 01
001 Sw3gun Cover 01

10mm Matchup: Semi-Automatic Pistol vs. Revolver

We pit the modern M&P 2.0 against the classic Model 610 to see how they affect 10 mm Auto ammunition performance.

First Look: Beretta AX800 Suprema

Beretta has unveiled its new AX800 Suprema, a ground-up engineered waterfowl shotgun that pushes the company’s performance, durability and ergonomics into a new class.

Reviewed: Allen Tejon and Bruiser Whitetail 2.0 Gun Cases

Have a big rifle or slug gun that none of your soft cases seem to fit? Don’t let your firearms get banged up. Take a look at Allen’s Tejon or Bruiser Whitetail 2.0 cases!               

First Look: Marlin Trapper Series Model 1894 in 10mm Auto

Marlin has introduced the first ever lever-action rifle chambered in 10mm Auto. The Marlin Trapper Series Model 1894 in 10mm Auto is launching in conjunction with Hornady Manufacturing Company’s new LeveRevolution 10mm Auto ammunition.

Hardware Review: Steyr Pro Hunter III SX

While its most recognizable gun remains the ever-futuristic-looking AUG tactical bullpup first made in 1977 and still used by militaries worldwide, Steyr also makes handguns and hunting rifles. Its Pro Hunter III SX rifle is an all-around hunting rifle and a great example of Steyr quality, a trait much easier felt than described. I’ll try it anyway.

NRA Foundation Awards $250,000 Grant to USA Shooting to Support National Team Programs

The NRA Foundation announced a $250,000 grant to USA Shooting to support the organization’s national team programs.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.