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 Padadoxes And Rekkr
LEDE Padadoxes And Rekkr

Lyman Introduces Affordable Sonicore Suppressor Line

With the reduction of the suppressor tax-stamp to $0 on January 1, 2026, an opening appeared in the suppressor market for an affordable line of cans that could bring hearing protection to all price points. In no time flat, Lyman Products has filled that gap with Sonicore Suppressors.

Elk Hunting at 101

Dick Blossom took a cow elk last fall in his home state of Montana at the age of 101. Calvin Coolidge was in the White House when he was born, and the Great Depression and Dust Bowl were years in the future.

New for 2026: TriStar Upland Hunter Thumbhole

TriStar Arms has introduced the Upland Hunter Thumbhole Stock, a 20-gauge over/under shotgun built for the field.

Savage Releases the Next Generation of the Model 110

Savage Arms has announced a new era of its legacy Model 110. The new chapter of this platform features 16 purpose-built models and spans hundreds of new SKUs, including new cartridge offerings and left-hand models.

Duck Hunting with a Sub Gauge

Curious about dropping ducks with a sub gauge? Follow along as Scott Haugen details the pros and cons of running subs.

New for 2026: TAG Precision FiberLok SG Pro Shotgun Sight

Tag Precision announces the introduction of the FiberLok SG Pro Shotgun Sight, a new front sight designed to elevate the shotgun shooting experience through faster target acquisition.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.