Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For waterfowl hunters running 16 gauge platforms, Federal Premium Black Cloud delivers steel shot with pattern density that rivals larger bore offerings. The 16 gauge waterfowl ammo loads a 2-3/4″ hull with 7/8 oz of #2 steel moving at 1450fps muzzle velocity — enough velocity to carry energy downrange without the recoil penalty of 12 gauge magnum loads. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad system deploys rear-opening petals and side-mounted vents timed to separate payload at the moment of maximum pattern integrity. Federal Premium builds this load in the United States with a Boxer primer (non-corrosive, lead-free catalyst), clean-burning propellant, and a black nickel head that resists corrosion when you’re carrying shells in wet blinds or marsh boats.
Performance at a Glance
The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad is the engineering story here. Traditional wads separate inconsistently through ported chokes — causing flyers and blown patterns. Federal Premium redesigned the rear petals to open on schedule regardless of choke porting, and added side vents to stabilize the column during barrel exit. The payload mixes 40 percent FLITESTOPPER steel pellets (layered-sphere geometry that cuts wider wound channels) with 60 percent round premium steel. Muzzle velocity of 1450fps puts #2 pellets on target with enough retained energy for clean kills at extended range. The sealed crimp and black nickel head keep moisture out during multi-day hunts in rain or snow.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 16 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Steel (40% FLITESTOPPER, 60% Premium) |
| Shot size | #2 |
| Shot weight | 7/8 oz |
| Velocity | 1450 fps |
| Wad | FLITECONTROL FLEX (rear-deploying petals, side vents) |
| Primer | Boxer, lead-free catalyst |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Rounds/box | 25 |
| Configuration | 250 rounds (10 boxes of 25) |
| Intended use | Waterfowl |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
Pattern this load through your choke — whether improved cylinder, modified, or full — before opening day. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad works equally well in ported and non-ported tubes, but individual guns will show preferences at specific yardages. For more steel and bismuth options across all gauges, browse our 16 gauge shotgun ammo collection.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Observe the four universal firearms safety rules on every hunt — treat every firearm as loaded, keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction, finger off trigger until ready to fire, identify your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current waterfowl hunting regulations in your state — some jurisdictions restrict shot size or impose zone-specific non-toxic requirements beyond federal migratory bird rules.
- Steel shot is harder than lead — use only chokes rated for steel to prevent barrel or choke tube damage. Most modern waterfowl guns accept steel through improved cylinder, modified, or full chokes; consult your firearm’s manual before patterning.
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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