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

Lead Photo 35 Rem V 360 BH
Lead Photo 35 Rem V 360 BH

Head to Head: The .35 Remington vs. the 360 Buckhammer

The .35 Remington, or the 360 Buckhammer? Which will take the edge in this latest Head to Head matchup.

Says Me: A Familiar Scene

What defines a trophy? It’s a question every hunter asks and answers throughout his or her career. In the beginning it may be any deer or any buck; the first wallhanger; the first head of Western game; a kid’s first deer; a limit of … whatever. Curious about an answer? Read on.

Elk Hunt Redemption: A Tale of Two Elkies

Struggle makes success sweeter, but it’s also a royal pain in the hindquarters.

Free, First Annual Mentored Pheasant Hunt on Long Island

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is hosting a free mentored pheasant hunt in Suffolk County. It provides a hunting opportunity for individuals interested in pheasant hunting for the first time—or those returning to the pursuit—in December.

#SundayGunday: MDT HNT26

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re taking a look at a unique chassis system from MDT, the HNT26. Designed for hunters looking for the ultimate lightweight setup, the HNT26 is just as perfect for packing on the miles as it is for making a precision shot at last light.

Hunting Elk with the 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak

Jay Grazio takes Federal’s new 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak round into the woods … for elk.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.