Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Federal Shorty 12 gauge shotshell measures just 1-3/4 inches from base to crimp—60% the length of a standard 2-3/4″ shell—yet delivers patterns, velocity, and shot column density within range of full-size counterparts. A minishell is defined as any 12-gauge shell shorter than 2-3/4 inches, designed to increase magazine capacity in tube-fed shotguns and reduce felt recoil for rapid follow-up shots. Federal loads 15/16 ounce of #8 lead shot in a roll-crimped hull, clocked at 1145 fps from a smooth bore barrel with boxer primers for clean ignition and reloadability.
Built for the Box
Federal employs a roll crimp on these shells to maintain shot column integrity during chambering and feeding in semi-automatic actions. The #8 shot size—each pellet 0.09 inches in diameter—provides dense patterns suitable for clays, small game, and close-range training. At 15/16 ounce, shot weight sits below standard 1-ounce loads, contributing to softer recoil impulse without emptying the pattern board. Velocity holds at 1145 fps, delivering sufficient energy for targets inside 25 yards while keeping chamber pressure within SAAMI spec for repeated cycling.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 1-3/4″ |
| Shot Type | Lead Shot |
| Shot Size | #8 |
| Shot Weight | 15/16 Ounce |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1145 fps |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Crimp | Roll |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Buffered | No |
| Barrel Type | Smooth Bore |
| Rounds/Box | 10 |
| Total Rounds | 100 (10 boxes) |
| Country of Origin | United States |
These minishells fit magazine extensions on Mossberg 590M, Remington 870 Tac-14, and similar platforms that accept 1-3/4″ shells. Verify your shotgun’s chamber and ejector geometry before ordering—some semi-autos require aftermarket adapters to reliably cycle short shells. Browse the full 12 Gauge Minishell Ammo lineup for additional shot sizes and slug 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.
- Follow the four rules of firearm safety at all times—treat every gun as loaded, never point at anything you don’t intend to shoot, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your shotgun is chambered for 1-3/4″ shells and that your state permits lead shot for your intended use—some jurisdictions require non-toxic shot for hunting waterfowl or public land training.
- Lead shot exposure is regulated under California Proposition 65—wash hands after handling and ensure adequate ventilation during storage and use.
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