Give 'em Federal Premium's 3rd Degree

by
posted on December 24, 2014
** 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. **

Earlier this year, Federal Premiuminventor of the turkey load—announced its latest gobbler-specific shotshell, titled 3rd Degree.

Using a multi-shot, three-stage payload to deliver lethal patterns, 3rd Degree is the company's answer to consumer demands for tighter patterns and longer ranges. The
leading section of the payload—20 percent of the total pellet count—is made up of No. 6
nickel-plated Flitestopper lead. The next 40 percent of the load is copper-plated No. 5 lead shot, which creates a dense, even pattern at moderate ranges. The final 40 percent of 3rd Degree’s payload consists of No. 7 Heavyweight pellets.

The Flitestopper portion is designed for close-range shots, the No. 5 lead shot for mid-range and the No. 7 Heavyweight for long-range. And it's all under one roof, so to speak. As you might have figured out, the three-layer system is what gave birth to the new shotshell's name.

“Its name represents its three stages of payload," Mike Holm, Federal Premium Product Manager, said. "Each stage is made up of different types of shot which are different sizes and different densities. This variety combines to create optimal patterns for three ranges—close, mid and long. ”

Features:

• Three-stage payload creates optimal patterns for the entire range spectrum
• 1,250 fps muzzle velocity
• A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to the National
Wild Turkey Federation

To learn more about the new turkey load, check out the video embedded below.

 

Latest

2W H2026 03 Hardware W3772 TAH 9510Lead
2W H2026 03 Hardware W3772 TAH 9510Lead

Hardware Review: Christensen Arms Evoke .375 H&H

A .375 H&H Magnum for less than $1,000 is a win for hunters on any continent, especially when it comes packed with features and has the sub-MOA accuracy potential of the American-made Evoke from Christensen Arms.

New for 2026: Avian-X Waterfowl Backpacks

Expanding its assortment to include soft goods in 2026, waterfowl brand Avian-X has announced an all-new lineup of packs specifically designed to keep waterfowl hunters organized, mobile and ready for anything.

Behind the Bullet: The .308 Norma Magnum

Norma’s ballistician Nils Kvale saw the wisdom of having the velocity and horsepower of the .300 H&H Magnum, but in a shorter, more affordable receiver, and used the H&H case to develop his .358 Norma Magnum in 1959 as well as the .308 Norma Magnum one year later. The .308 Norma Magnum closely resembles the wildcat .30-338 cartridge, though the shoulder of the former is located a bit more toward the base than that of the .308 Norma Magnum. Intrigued? Read on about this often unfairly overlooked hunting classic.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV

The Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV, from Browning Trail Cameras, promises direct video transmission and streamlined setup without adding complexity.

Is Wildcatting Right for You?

Dennis Bradley explores the potential benefits of going with a wildcat cartridge, using the .375 Raptor as a case study.

New for 2026: The Chiappa M1-22 Bushranger

Chiappa Firearms expands its rimfire lineup with the introduction of the Bushranger M1-22 Semi-Auto, a .22 LR rifle built to bridge familiar sporting ergonomics with modern accessory capability. The Bushranger is intended for recreational shooting, skill development and range use, but could also excel in the hands of any small game or varmint hunter.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.