Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For deer hunters and property defense, 12 gauge low recoil buckshot bridges the gap between full-power magnum loads and lighter birdshot. Federal Power-Shok Low Recoil pushes nine .33-caliber 00 Buck pellets at 1140 fps from a 2-3/4″ shell — fast enough to deliver penetration and energy inside 40 yards, mild enough to keep you on target for follow-up shots. Federal Premium builds these rounds in Anoka, Minnesota, with Triple Plus wad technology: a shot cup designed to cushion pellets during ignition and release them in a controlled column downrange. Buffered shot resists flattening under acceleration, maintaining round profiles that fly true and hit hard.
Performance at a Glance
Each shell chambers nine .33-caliber lead pellets arranged in a 3×3 stack, buffered with granulated plastic filler to prevent contact deformation. Muzzle velocity of 1140 fps yields approximately 1200 foot-pounds of total energy at the bore — about 20 percent less than standard-pressure 00 Buck loads, achieved by reducing powder charge and wad pressure. The 6-point star crimp locks pellets securely while allowing smooth feeding through pump-action and gas-operated shotguns. Boxer primers are non-corrosive and sealed against moisture. Hulls are marked with Federal headstamps and accept standard 209 shotshell primers for reloaders.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Lead Shot |
| Shot size | #00 Buck |
| Number of pellets | 9 |
| Buffered | Yes |
| Muzzle velocity | 1140 fps |
| Dram equivalent | 3 |
| Crimp | 6-Point Star |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Rounds/box | 5 |
| Intended use | Big Game |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
Power-Shok Low Recoil fits smoothbore barrels with any choke constriction, though cylinder or improved cylinder yields the best pattern spread for close-range work. For more options in defensive and hunting loads, browse our full 12 Gauge Buckshot Ammo category.
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.
- Follow the four universal rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you do not intend to shoot, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and know your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your state and local jurisdiction allow possession and use of buckshot ammunition — some municipalities restrict projectile type or shot size for hunting or discharge within city limits.
- This product contains lead, a substance known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm under Proposition 65. Wash hands after handling ammunition and avoid indoor firing on poorly ventilated ranges.
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