Description
Federal's Vital-Shok buckshot has earned its reputation through real-world performance on everything from deer to predators. What sets this load apart is the engineering that goes into every shell. The patented spiral stacking process combined with a plastic shot cup and buffering system works together to produce dense, consistent patterns downrange. You're not just getting buckshot, you're getting precision-engineered ammunition that performs like the rest of Federal's premium line.
What Makes Federal Vital-Shok Stand Out
The 12 pellets of copper-plated 00 buck in each round are tougher than standard lead pellets. Copper plating preserves the pellet's shape through the firing process, which means better ballistic efficiency and more uniform patterns. This translates to tighter groupings at distance and more reliable performance in the field. Federal designed this load specifically so you're putting more hits on target with each shot.
Ballistics and Pattern Performance
This 2.75-inch shell launches at 1,290 feet per second, delivering the power you need for medium game without requiring the longer magnum cases. The buffering material inside the shot cup absorbs some of the shock as pellets accelerate, preventing deformation and keeping your pattern tight and predictable. Whether you're patterning at the range or hunting in varying conditions, consistency is what you get with Vital-Shok.
Field-Proven Reliability
Federal's quality control and component selection mean these shells fire reliably in whatever conditions you encounter. The primer ignition is dependable, the powder burn is consistent, and the wad separation is clean. Five rounds per box makes this practical for hunters who want to verify their patterns before the season opens or for those who keep a box on hand for close-range medium game opportunities.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches
- Shot Size: 00 Buck
- Pellet Count: 12 pellets per round
- Shot Weight: 1 1/2 oz
- Muzzle Velocity: 1,290 feet per second
- Pellet Material: Copper-plated lead
- Rounds per Box: 5 rounds
- Manufacturer: Federal Ammunition
- Model: Federal Premium Vital-Shok
- Manufacturer Part Number: P15600
- UPC: 029465001193
What’s Included
- 5 rounds of Federal Premium Vital-Shok 12 gauge 2.75 inch 00 buckshot ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
What game is this Federal Vital-Shok load suitable for?
The 12 pellets of 00 buckshot in this load make it ideal for medium game hunting including deer and predators at close to medium range. The copper-plated pellets and tight pattern design give you reliable performance on game up to about 40 yards, where buckshot is most effective. Many hunters also use 00 buck loads like this for field work and hunting situations where multiple shot capability is valuable.
How do the copper-plated pellets affect performance?
Copper plating hardens the lead pellets, preventing them from deforming as they accelerate through the barrel and wad. This means they maintain their round shape longer and fly more consistently to the target. The result is a tighter, more predictable pattern and better energy retention downrange compared to soft lead pellets.
Will this ammunition work in older shotguns?
Federal Premium Vital-Shok shells are 2.75 inches, which is the standard chamber length for most 12 gauge shotguns. They'll function in any 12 gauge shotgun with a 2.75-inch or longer chamber. Always verify your shotgun's chamber length before loading, and make sure your shotgun is in good mechanical condition.
How does the spiral stacking and buffering improve accuracy?
The spiral stacking process arranges pellets in a specific pattern that reduces voids and friction during acceleration. The buffering material (usually granulated plastic) absorbs shock and prevents pellets from crushing into each other, which would deform them and throw off their flight. Together these features keep your pattern tighter and more uniform at distance.





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