Description
Federal Premium Vital-Shok buckshot delivers the kind of precision that people sometimes overlook in shotgun ammo. The 3-inch shells are loaded with 41 copper-plated pellets in 4 buck size, which means you get a denser pattern than you'd find in heavier buckshot loads. The copper plating keeps pellets from deforming during firing, so your pattern stays tight where it counts.
Federal's Spiral Stacking Process
What sets these apart is the patented spiral stacking system combined with a plastic shot cup and granulated buffer material. This engineering ensures your pellets stay uniform in shape and density as they leave the barrel, giving you the predictable patterns needed for effective hits at realistic hunting distances. At 1100 feet per second, the load hits hard without excessive velocity that can lead to problems.
Why 4 Buck Works
The 41-pellet load gives you more impact points per shot compared to larger buckshot, which makes it easier to connect on moving targets or game without perfect shot placement. This size strikes a balance between individual pellet energy and sheer pellet count. A 3-inch magnum shell naturally carries more payload than standard 2.75-inch loads, so Federal loaded all those extra pellets for real advantage in the field.
Built for Reliable Performance
Federal starts with premium primers that get inspected more frequently than standard specs, followed by clean-burning powders formulated to strict standards. These details might sound small, but they add up to consistent ignition shot after shot. The plastic hull stands up to field use and repeated handling without splitting or swelling.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inches
- Shot Size: #4 Buck
- Pellet Count: 41 pellets per round
- Pellet Type: Copper-plated lead
- Shot Weight: 2 ounces
- Muzzle Velocity: 1100 feet per second
- Hull Material: Plastic
- Rounds Per Box: 5 rounds
- Manufacturer: Federal Ammunition
- Manufacturer Part Number: P1584B
- UPC: 029465001285
- Application: Hunting, medium game
What’s Included
- 5 rounds of Federal Premium Vital-Shok 12 gauge 3-inch buckshot shells
Frequently Asked Questions
What distance is this 4 buck load effective for?
The 41-pellet 4 buck load patterns tightly enough for effective hunting out to around 40 yards depending on your shotgun's choke and barrel. At closer ranges under 30 yards, you'll have dense clusters of pellets on target. Always pattern your specific shotgun with this ammo before hunting to see exactly how it performs from your gun.
How does 41 pellets compare to standard 2.75-inch buckshot?
A typical 2.75-inch 4 buck load carries around 27 pellets, so this 3-inch magnum shell gives you roughly 50 percent more pellets per round. That extra payload means more chances to connect on your target, especially if your shot placement isn't perfect.
Is this suitable for deer hunting?
Yes, the 41 pellets of copper-plated 4 buck are commonly used for medium game like deer at close to moderate ranges. The copper plating provides better penetration than plain lead, and the high pellet count increases the odds of solid hits. Make sure your shotgun is capable of handling 3-inch magnums before use.
Why copper-plated pellets?
Copper plating keeps the pellets from deforming when they hit the shot cup and wad during firing. When pellets stay round instead of flattening out, they maintain consistent size and weight, which produces tighter patterns and better downrange energy compared to unplated lead.





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