Description
The Fiocchi Golden Waterfowl 123SGW3 brings the kind of balance that makes a real difference when the birds are coming in. The load combines treated steel pellets with quality wads and clean powders to produce the tight, predictable patterns that matter in the marsh. The shot is uniform and plated to resist corrosion, and the powder burn is consistent, which means you get dependable ignition even in wet field conditions.
What Makes This Golden Waterfowl Load Work
The 1 1/4 oz payload in 3-inch length is loaded to around 1350 to 1400 fps, which sits in that sweet spot for pattern density rather than pushing extreme velocity. Research and field testing have shown that the old trend toward 1600+ fps loads actually hurt pattern quality and effective terminal performance. This load was designed with that lesson in mind. The heavy-duty wads protect the barrel while giving you the dense patterns you need at typical hunting distances.
Shot Size and Application
The number 3 shot size works well for medium to large waterfowl across a range of scenarios. It carries enough energy to anchor birds cleanly while the higher pellet count compared to larger sizes gives you better pattern density. That matters more than raw speed when you're trying to make the most of your chances.
Field-Proven Reliability
Fiocchi has been making quality ammunition for the American market for nearly two decades with this waterfowl line, and real hunters have relied on these loads in tough conditions. The sealed wads and treated pellets do what they're supposed to do when it's cold, wet, and the ducks aren't cooperating.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Fiocchi
- Manufacturer Part Number: 123SGW3
- UPC: 762344705552
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inch
- Shot Type: Steel, Treated Plated Pellets
- Shot Size: #3
- Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz
- Muzzle Velocity: 1350-1400 fps
- Rounds Per Box: 25
- Boxes Per Case: 10
What’s Included
- 25 shotshell rounds
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #3 shot size best for in waterfowl hunting?
Number 3 shot is versatile for medium to large waterfowl including ducks and geese at typical hunting distances. It provides a good balance of pellet count for pattern density and sufficient energy for clean, ethical kills. The higher pellet count compared to larger shot sizes like BB or T improves your chances of connecting when birds are moving.
How does the velocity of this Golden Waterfowl load compare to other steel shot shells?
Running around 1350-1400 fps, this load is designed for pattern quality over extreme velocity. Field testing has shown that ultra-high velocity loads (1600+ fps) actually sacrifice pattern density, which is more important for effective waterfowl hunting. Fiocchi engineered this load to hit that optimal balance.
Will these shells work in my 12 gauge shotgun?
These 3-inch shells are designed for 12 gauge shotguns chambered for 3-inch loads. Check your shotgun's chamber marking to confirm it accepts 3-inch shells before purchasing. The shells feature treated pellets and quality wads that deliver consistent performance across different shotgun actions and choke tubes.
What are the treated pellets and how do they help performance?
The steel pellets are coated with a plating treatment that provides corrosion resistance and improves consistency in the shell. This helps maintain pellet uniformity during loading and firing, which directly translates to more predictable patterns and reliable field performance in wet, harsh hunting conditions.





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