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

LEDE Hunter
LEDE Hunter

Proof That Hunters’ Votes Matter

Hunter's rights are expanding across the country. Curious how? Read on for some great policies being enacted nationwide.

2026 Father's Day Gift Roundup

Father's Day is around the corner. With the summer heating up, Dad will soon be on his share of scouting trips, fishing outings, range days, and all the other sorts of summer excursions fans of the great outdoors partake in. Read on, for some great gifts to get Dad this Father's Day, to make his summer that much more fun.

NRA Youth Hunter Education Challenge National Championship Returns

NRA Youth Hunter Education Challenge National Championship Returns—And Brings Together a Generation. Learn all about NRA YHEC at yhec.nra.org.

Savage Arms Announces Father’s Day Rebate on Axis Rifles

Savage Arms is celebrating Father’s Day by offering a $75 mail-in rebate on the purchase of any Axis/Axis II or Axis 2 rifle. This limited-time promotion is valid for purchases made between May 15, 2026, and June 30, 2026. Customers must submit their rebate requests by July 30, 2026, to qualify.

Ruger Relocates HQ to North Carolina

Amid an increasingly hostile political environment in Connecticut, Ruger has relocated its corporate headquarters from Southport, Conn., to Mayodan, N.C.

Spring Plinking: A Seasonal Rimfire Roundup

What’s in Your Picnic Basket? A spring plinker round up for your trigger time pleasure. As the weather breaks, it’s time to get outside, pack a picnic and send some lead downrange. Let’s look at some fun options to pack along in your picnic plinking adventures. 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.