Description
Fiocchi's Arkansas Steel line brings serious waterfowl performance to three different shot sizes, and the #4 load hits that sweet spot for versatility across duck and light goose hunting. You're looking at treated, uniform steel pellets pushed to 1,550 fps through your barrel, paired with protective wads engineered to keep patterns tight without beating up your shotgun. That velocity sits in the ballpark where pattern density stays good and recoil stays manageable, which matters when you're working all-day hunts or taking multiple shots at passing birds.
What Makes Arkansas Steel Different
The name pays homage to the Delta region and Mississippi Flyway, but Fiocchi built these shells to work everywhere your season takes you. Field testers and regular waterfowlers have reported solid cycling in various semi-autos and pumps, with pellets that look round and consistent when you crack open a shell. The zinc-plated shot construction is straightforward and reliable, without the premium price tag of bismuth or tungsten loads. Users on waterfowl forums note clean patterns, straightforward performance, and no-fuss reliability from box to box.
1-1/5 Ounce Payload and #4 Shot Selection
This #4 shot size sits between #3 (for bigger geese) and #5 (for tighter patterns on dabblers), making it a logical pick if you want one load that covers multiple scenarios. The 1-1/5 ounce payload gives you plenty of pellets in the air without requiring specialty reloading gear or proprietary components. That weight, combined with 1,550 fps velocity, produces downrange energy and pattern density that get the job done at reasonable distances. One hundred rounds per box means you can run a solid practice session before season or work your way through several hunting trips without buying constantly.
The Practical Reality
These shells come in a practical field carton with a handle, so transport from the truck to the blind isn't a hassle. They'll chamber and cycle in standard 12 gauge shotguns designed for 3-inch shells, though as with any ammunition, running a quick test at the pattern board with your exact choke is never wasted time. Fiocchi brings over five generations of ammunition manufacturing to this load, and it shows in consistent pressure curves and component quality.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inch
- Shot Size: #4
- Payload Weight: 1 1/5 ounce (34 grams)
- Muzzle Velocity: 1,550 feet per second
- Shot Material: Zinc-plated steel
- Rounds per Box: 100
- Manufacturer: Fiocchi of America
- Manufacturer Part Number: 123ADS4
- UPC: 762344866611
What’s Included
- 100 rounds of Fiocchi Arkansas Steel 12GA 3" #4 shot
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these Arkansas Steel shells cycle in my semi-automatic or pump shotgun?
Most modern 12 gauge shotguns rated for 3-inch shells cycle these without issue. Users report reliable feeding in Benelli, Remington, Mossberg, and other common platforms. Your mileage can vary based on gun condition and choke setup, so patterning and a few practice rounds will tell you if they work in your specific shotgun.
What shot size should I pick for ducks versus geese?
#4 steel is a middle-ground choice that works for both. For mallards and puddle ducks out to 35 yards or so, #4 delivers solid pattern density. Larger geese hunters often prefer #2 or #3, while some duck-only guys go lighter to #5. Your best move is patterning at the distances you actually hunt and seeing what your gun throws.
How does the 1,550 fps velocity compare to other waterfowl loads?
1,550 fps is on the faster side for waterfowl shells, though ballistics experts often suggest that 1,200 to 1,400 fps actually produces better patterns and less recoil. The Arkansas Steel load delivers this velocity with treated pellets designed to maintain pattern, so it's a legitimate option if you want speed and don't mind the extra recoil.
Can I use these for pheasants or other upland game?
These are designed and manufactured specifically for waterfowl hunting. The #4 shot size and steel construction make them less than ideal for upland game, where lead shot or lighter lead alternatives typically outperform. Stick with these for ducks and geese.





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