Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For waterfowlers running vintage 28 gauge upland guns over decoys or hunters preferring lighter recoil without sacrificing terminal performance, this Federal Premium HEVI-Bismuth load delivers non-toxic compliance and steel-beating density in a 3-inch hull. Bismuth shot is a high-density alternative to steel — 22 percent denser at 9.6 g/cc — meaning smaller shot sizes hit harder at range and penetrate feathers more effectively than comparably sized steel pellets. Federal Premium sources these pellets from HEVI-Shot, the industry leader in non-toxic projectile technology, and pairs them with the rear-deploying FLITECONTROL FLEX wad for consistent, tight-to-moderate patterns through any choke constriction, ported or traditional. Because bismuth is softer than steel or tungsten, you can safely fire this ammunition through fixed-choke doubles and vintage smoothbores without risking barrel damage — a critical advantage when taking a family heirloom into the marsh.
Built for the Box
Each 3-inch hull carries 7/8 ounce of #3 bismuth shot, leaving the muzzle at 1400 feet per second. Federal Premium loads these shells with non-corrosive Boxer primers and reloadable hulls, though the cost of bismuth shot typically discourages reloading for most shooters. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad stabilizes the shot column through the bore, then peels away at muzzle exit to release the pellets without disrupting the pattern — a critical feature when shooting through ported chokes or when you need consistent point-of-impact across varying constrictions. Twenty-five rounds per box. Made in the United States of America.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Shell length | 3″ |
| Shot type | Bismuth |
| Shot weight | 7/8 Ounce |
| Shot size | #3 |
| Velocity | 1400 Feet Per Second |
| Wad/hull | FLITECONTROL FLEX / Reloadable |
| Choke | Ported and non-ported compatible |
| Rounds/box | 25 Round |
| Intended use | Waterfowl |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
This load fits any 28 gauge smoothbore with a 3-inch chamber. Because bismuth is softer than steel, it’s safe for fixed-choke guns and heirloom doubles that would be damaged by steel shot. Shop the full 28 Gauge ammo selection at Tatted Tacticals for steel, bismuth, and lead upland loads.
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.
- Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction; treat every firearm as if it is loaded; keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot; be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your firearm is chambered for 28 Gauge 3″ ammunition and that your choke tube is rated for non-toxic shot before firing. Some states and federal wildlife refuges mandate non-toxic shot for waterfowl and upland game — confirm current regulations in your hunting area.
- This product contains bismuth shot, which is softer than steel and safe for use in vintage shotguns with fixed chokes or damascus barrels that would otherwise be restricted to lead-only loads. Consult a qualified gunsmith if you are uncertain about your firearm’s compatibility with non-toxic shot.
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