Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
The Federal Premium Vital-Shok 12 gauge TruBall slug answers a single question for smoothbore hunters: how much accuracy can you pull from a cylinder bore without swapping barrels? The TruBall system — a plastic ball seated between wad and slug — forces the 1oz hollow point rifled slug into controlled rotation as it exits the muzzle, stabilizing flight over extended range. At 1600 fps and 2487 ft-lbs, this 2-3/4″ load delivers big-game energy from whitetail woods to hog thickets, compatible with any smoothbore 12 gauge and safe for rifled choke tubes or fully rifled barrels.
Load Profile
Federal Premium engineers the TruBall slug with a hollow point nose and a roll crimp on reloadable hulls. The plastic ball insert engages the slug base during firing, imparting spin without rifling contact. Boxer primer, non-corrosive propellant, lead projectile — standard construction for hunters who reload. Non-toxic shot laws do not apply to slugs in most jurisdictions; verify local regulations before hunting waterfowl areas.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot or Slug Type | Hollow Point Rifled Slug |
| Slug Weight | 1 Ounce |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1600 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle Energy | 2487 Foot Pounds |
| Barrel Type | Rifled or Smooth Bore |
| Crimp | Roll |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Rounds per Box | 5 Round |
| Intended Use | Big Game |
| Country of Origin | United States of America |
This TruBall load fits the same role as traditional Foster slugs but with tighter groups at 75+ yards, making it a practical choice for deer hunters working Iowa cornfields or Pennsylvania hardwoods where smoothbore shotguns remain standard. Browse the full 12 Gauge Slugs lineup for sabot, brenneke, and reduced-recoil options.
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.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded; keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Verify current hunting regulations in your state — some public lands prohibit lead projectiles; this slug is lead-core and not approved for waterfowl or condor zones.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm (Prop 65). Wash hands after handling.
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