Description
Federal Hi-Bird Fiber Wad Bismuth shells give you a genuine alternative for upland hunting where non-toxic ammunition is required or preferred. The bismuth payload is considerably denser than steel, packing 22 percent more density by volume, which means your pellets carry more energy out to realistic hunting ranges. You'll get the ballistics and point-of-aim consistency you expect from lead ammunition, just without the environmental concerns.
What Makes Federal Hi-Bird Bismuth Different
The real story here is the wad system. Federal paired bismuth shot with a fiber over-powder wad instead of plastic, so what hits the ground eventually degrades naturally instead of lingering in the field. That's not just marketing talk either. The cellulose wad delivers consistent gas sealing and shot cup performance while the fiber design breaks down harmlessly over time. Your gun won't know the difference between these and standard lead loads from a ballistics standpoint.
Bismuth Performance on Upland Game
These shells run at 1330 feet per second with 1 1/4 ounces of number 5 shot. The number 5 pellets work well across typical upland game from quail and dove to pheasant and grouse. Bismuth patterns more like lead than steel does, giving you tighter, more predictable spreads at working distances. Because bismuth is softer than steel, these rounds are safe in older shotguns that you might be hesitant to shoot steel through, and they won't wear on your barrel the way harder shot can.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12
- Shell Length: 2-3/4 inch
- Shot Size: #5
- Shot Weight: 1-1/4 oz
- Shot Material: Bismuth (non-toxic)
- Muzzle Velocity: 1330 fps
- Wad Type: Fiber over-powder wad
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Manufacturer: Federal Ammunition
- Model: Hi-Bird Fiber Wad Bismuth
- MPN: HVFB12HW5
- UPC: 604544696981
What’s Included
- 25 rounds of Federal Hi-Bird 12 gauge bismuth shotshells
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these Federal Hi-Bird shells safe to use in older shotguns?
Yes. Bismuth is softer than steel, making it compatible with older shotgun designs and barrels that shouldn't be exposed to harder shot materials. The pellets won't cause the wear that steel does, and bismuth is completely non-magnetic. You can safely run these through classic double guns and semi-autos without concern.
How do bismuth shells compare to steel for upland hunting?
Bismuth is significantly denser than steel, delivering 22 percent more density by volume. This means better downrange energy and more consistent patterning at typical hunting distances. Bismuth patterns closer to lead than steel does, so your shot placement remains predictable. Many folks find they can use the same choke and hold points they've always used.
What's the advantage of the fiber wad in these shells?
The fiber wad system breaks down naturally over time instead of accumulating as plastic litter in your hunting area. It still delivers the gas seal and shot cup performance needed for consistent patterns, so there's no ballistic compromise. Federal's cellulose wad technology keeps these shells performing at full capacity.
Are number 5 bismuth pellets suitable for pheasant hunting?
Absolutely. Number 5 shot with bismuth's density provides solid penetration for pheasant-sized game. The slightly smaller pellets help you maintain pattern density at normal hunting ranges. Just make sure to pattern your gun before the hunt to confirm your point of impact and effective range with your specific shotgun and choke combination.





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