Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
When big-bore firepower meets engineered precision, you get Federal Premium Vital-Shok 12 gauge 3.5″ buckshot — a load that stacks 18 copper-plated 00 pellets behind a patented spiral-stacking process and delivers them at 1100 feet per second. Federal Vital-Shok buckshot is ammunition purpose-built for hunters who face large game at close range and demand maximum payload, deep penetration, and consistent patterning from magnum-length shells. The 12 gauge 3.5 buckshot format is the longest production shotshell chambering in common use, and Federal wrings every inch of performance from that extra case capacity.
Performance at a Glance
Federal Premium engineers the Vital-Shok buckshot line around spiral stacking — a process that arranges pellets in a helical column inside the shot cup, reducing pellet deformation during setback and bore transit. Each of the 18 pellets is copper-plated for hardness and buffered with granulated polymer to cushion against pellet-to-pellet contact. The result is tighter patterns at hunting distances and deeper penetration on impact, because round, undamaged pellets fly true and retain energy better than deformed shot. The plastic shot cup protects the bore and keeps the payload together through the choke, then releases cleanly downrange. Muzzle velocity of 1100 fps from a 3-1/2″ shell delivers over 3,800 foot-pounds of muzzle energy — more than enough for hogs, deer, or defensive scenarios where maximum buckshot payload is required.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3-1/2″ |
| Shot Type | Copper Plated Lead Shot |
| Shot Size | #00 Buck |
| Number of Pellets | 18 |
| Buffered | Yes |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1100 fps |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Barrel Type | Smooth Bore |
| Crimp | 6-Point Star |
| Rounds per Box | 5 |
| Intended Use | Big Game |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
The 3-1/2″ 12 gauge chambering requires a shotgun action specifically rated for magnum shells — check your receiver markings and owner’s manual before firing. The extra case capacity allows Federal to pack six more pellets than a standard 2-3/4″ 00 buck load, and the buffered spiral stack maintains pattern integrity out to 40 yards in most barrels. For more buckshot loads across gauges and pellet counts, browse our full 12 Gauge Buckshot Ammo selection.
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 treat every firearm as if it is loaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm — wash hands after handling.
- Magnum shells generate increased recoil and chamber pressure — verify your shotgun is rated for 3-1/2″ shells before use.
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