Description
If you hunt where non-lead ammunition is required or preferred, Federal Upland Steel rounds give you a solid, economical option that works. This 1 oz load of #7.5 steel shot leaves the barrel at 1375 feet per second, moving fast enough to pattern well while keeping recoil manageable through a long hunting day.
What Makes Federal Upland Steel Reliable in the Field
These shells are built on Federal's straightforward approach to upland hunting. The paper wad construction is designed to chamber smoothly in field-style shotguns and support consistent patterning. That reliability matters when you're covering ground and your gun needs to work the same way on shot ten as it did on shot one. Steel shot does require you to pattern your specific shotgun and choke combination, but once you know what it does, you can trust these loads to repeat that performance.
The Right Payload for Light Upland Birds
The 1 oz steel payload pairs well with #7.5 shot for doves, quail, and other light upland game. Smaller shot size means denser patterns and more pellets in the air, which forgives slightly imperfect aim on fast-moving birds. Because you're using steel instead of lead, remember that steel doesn't deform the way lead does, so patterns tend to stay tighter. That works in your favor on smaller birds at moderate distances. Most upland hunting happens within 30 yards anyway, and that's where this load shines.
Practical for High-Volume Days
The 25-round box is packaged for hunters who plan to spend a full day in the field without running out halfway through. Whether you're breaking in a young gun dog or working through a productive spot, you can shoot what you need without constant resupply runs. At the price point, these work for both serious hunting trips and casual range time where you want non-lead compliance.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 inch
- Shot Size: #7.5
- Shot Weight: 1 oz
- Shot Type: Steel (Non-Toxic)
- Muzzle Velocity: 1375 fps
- Pellet Count: 422
- Wad Type: Paper
- Rounds Per Box: 25
- Boxes Per Case: 10
- Manufacturer: Federal Ammunition
- MPN: USH122W75
- UPC: 604544673951
What’s Included
- 25 rounds of Federal Upland Steel 12 gauge shells
Frequently Asked Questions
What choke should I use with Federal Upland Steel #7.5 shells?
Steel shot patterns denser than lead, so you'll typically need to go one choke tighter than you would with lead. Start with Improved Cylinder for close-range upland work, then pattern at your expected shooting distances. Modified choke works well for 30-35 yard shots. Always check your shotgun's manual to confirm it's rated for steel shot before shooting.
Are these shells effective for pheasant hunting?
The #7.5 shot size works better on smaller upland birds like quail and dove. For pheasant, especially late season, most hunters step up to #6 or #5 shot to get more energy at distance. If pheasants are your main target where lead isn't allowed, consider a different load or pattern these thoroughly at 35-40 yards to confirm they'll work for your setup.
How far can I shoot these Federal Upland Steel shells?
Most upland hunting happens within 30 yards, and that's where this load delivers its best performance. You can reach out to 35-40 yards with the right choke, but pattern testing is essential since steel behaves differently than lead. The denser patterns mean you need tighter chokes at distance to maintain pattern density where it matters.
Do I need to use a specific shotgun for steel shot?
Not all older shotguns are rated for steel shot, so check your owner's manual first. Modern shotguns made in the last couple decades are almost always approved. Never use full choke with steel unless your manufacturer explicitly says it's safe, since the hardness of steel can stress tighter chokes.





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