Description
Federal Black Cloud FS Steel rounds have earned their reputation among waterfowl hunters for one simple reason: they work when it matters. The 2-3/4 inch 1-1/8 ounce load delivers solid performance across standard and ported chokes without needing specialized gear.
The FLITECONTROL FLEX Wad Advantage
The real difference shows up downrange. The rear-deploying petals and side-mounted vents on the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad do something other ammunition struggles with: they release the payload at exactly the right moment for dense, tight patterns. It's not marketing speak. Hunters using ported chokes often find that traditional wads lose pattern control. The Flex design stays deployed, so your pattern stays dense whether you're shooting through a ported barrel or a standard choke.
Smart Shot Payload
These rounds mix 40 percent FLITESTOPPER steel pellets with 60 percent premium steel. FLITESTOPPER pellets feature a raised band around the center that creates larger wound channels than standard shot. The standard pellets fill out the pattern for more consistent kills. That combination of lethality and pattern density is why field results match the ballistics.
Clean Burning from First Shot to Last
Federal redesigned the Black Cloud line with cleaner performance in mind. The Catalyst lead-free primer and temperature-stable propellant cut down on residue buildup that can foul your barrel. That means less cleaning between outings and more reliable ignition in cold weather. The nickel-plated hull base resists corrosion, and the sealed crimp keeps moisture out of the powder column during those wet early mornings.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 2-3/4"
- Shot Size: #2
- Shot Weight: 1-1/8 oz
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Muzzle Velocity: 1500 fps
- Shot Type: Steel (non-toxic)
- Pellet Count: 141 pellets
- Primer Type: Catalyst Lead-Free
- Payload Mix: 40% FLITESTOPPER / 60% Premium Steel
- Manufacturer Part Number: PWBX1472
- UPC: 604544623055
- Wad Type: FLITECONTROL FLEX
What’s Included
- 25 Black Cloud FS Steel shotshells
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Black Cloud FS Steel work with my ported choke?
Yes. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad on these rounds was specifically engineered to work with both ported and standard chokes. The lengthened fins and side vents maintain consistent pattern performance regardless of your choke type, which was a major improvement over earlier Black Cloud loads.
What makes FLITESTOPPER pellets different from regular steel shot?
FLITESTOPPER pellets have a raised band around the middle that increases their surface area on impact, creating wider wound channels than standard pellets. Mixed at 40 percent of the payload, they deliver lethal hits while the 60 percent regular pellets fill out the pattern for consistent results.
How clean do these shells actually burn?
The redesigned Catalyst lead-free primer and temperature-stable propellant significantly reduce barrel residue compared to older Black Cloud loads. You'll notice less carbon buildup, cleaner extraction, and more reliable ignition in cold temperatures without any trade-off in velocity or pattern density.
Are these shells safe in older shotguns?
These are standard 12 gauge 2-3/4 inch steel shells that work in any 12 gauge shotgun rated for steel shot. Always verify your specific gun can handle steel ammunition by checking the barrel markings. The 1500 fps velocity is moderate and won't cause issues in properly maintained shotguns.





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