Description
The Federal 3rd Degree stands apart from typical turkey loads because it doesn't try to excel at one distance. Instead, it's built to handle whatever scenario the spring woods throw at you with a three-stage payload that covers close, mid, and extended range performance.
Three-Stage Payload for Full-Range Coverage
Each shell contains three distinct shot types layered for specific performance zones. The first wave is 20 percent FLITESTOPPER #6 pellets with a distinctive cutting ring that spreads quickly on release. These handle unexpected close encounters under 20 yards where tight patterns can mean a complete miss. The middle 40 percent is copper-plated #5 lead designed to generate dense, lethal patterns in the 20 to 40-yard sweet spot. The final 40 percent is #7 HEAVYWEIGHT TSS with its denser tungsten construction, delivering the energy needed to reach birds beyond 40 yards. This design philosophy differs from competitors chasing maximum tightness at distance. Federal recognized the real problem turkey hunters face: a load that works great at 50 yards might produce a softball-size pattern when a tom sneaks inside 15 yards.
FLITECONTROL FLEX Wad Technology
The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad works through both standard and ported turkey chokes by opening from the rear rather than peeling apart. As it exits the barrel, it flares backward to slow its forward momentum while letting the three shot types release in sequence. This controlled release maintains consistent flight characteristics across the different pellet compositions and sizes. The full-length design also prevents the hard tungsten pellets from contacting your barrel directly, protecting the gun over time.
Built for the Realities of Turkey Hunting
These 3.5-inch, 2-ounce shells come loaded to 1250 fps and packaged five rounds per box. The diverse payload means you're prepared regardless of how distance plays out on any given hunt. Whether a gobbler hangs up at the edge of your effective range or cuts in closer than expected, you have shot suitable for either scenario loaded in the same shell.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Federal Ammunition
- Model: 3rd Degree with HEAVYWEIGHT TSS
- MPN: PTDX139567
- UPC: 604544626605
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3.5 inches
- Shot Weight: 2 ounces
- Shot Sizes: #5, #6, #7 mixed
- Payload Composition: 40% Copper-Plated #5 Lead, 20% FLITESTOPPER #6 Lead, 40% HEAVYWEIGHT TSS #7
- Wad System: FLITECONTROL FLEX full-length wad
- Velocity: 1250 fps
- Rounds per Box: 5 rounds
- Application: Turkey hunting
- TSS Density: 18 g/cc
What’s Included
- 5 rounds of Federal 3rd Degree 12 Gauge 3.5 inch shells
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the 3rd Degree load pattern well through ported chokes?
Yes. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad is specifically designed to work through both standard and ported turkey chokes. It opens from the rear to control the release of all three shot types, maintaining consistent patterns regardless of your choke setup.
What makes the three-stage payload different from single-shot turkey loads?
The 3rd Degree combines FLITESTOPPER pellets for quick spread at close range, copper-plated lead for mid-range density, and HEAVYWEIGHT TSS for extended-range energy. This lets you handle turkeys at any distance without sacrificing effectiveness at either end of the spectrum.
How far will these shells effectively reach?
The 40% HEAVYWEIGHT TSS payload delivers lethal patterns well beyond 40 yards, making these shells capable at extended distances. The copper-plated #5 and FLITESTOPPER portions ensure you're covered from close range up through mid-distance encounters.
Can I use 3rd Degree shells in my 12-gauge turkey gun?
Yes, as long as your shotgun is rated for 3.5-inch magnum shells. Always check your gun's chamber markings to confirm it handles 3.5-inch ammunition before loading any shells.








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