Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, competitive shooter.
Federal Top Gun steel shot loads answer the need for non-toxic target ammunition where lead restrictions apply — whether you’re breaking clays at a waterfowl-management area or training with the same steel you hunt with. This 12 gauge 2¾” shell launches 1 oz of #7½ steel shot at 1250 fps through a paper wad, offering consistent velocity and pattern density for sporting clays, trap, and skeet where lead is prohibited or you want match-condition practice with steel.
Load Profile
The Federal Top Gun steel load runs a clean-burning powder charge behind a paper wad — no plastic cup, no petroleum-based components in the shot column. At 1 oz and 1250 fps, you’re in the envelope for smooth-cycling semi-autos and manageable recoil in break-actions. The #7½ steel delivers tighter patterns than larger steel sizes, letting you dust clays at typical sporting clays distances (20–35 yards) without the wide spread of #9 lead or the sparse counts of #6 steel. Boxer primers and reloadable hulls with 8-point star crimps give handloaders a foundation for future loads.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2¾” |
| Shot type | Steel Shot |
| Shot weight | 1 Ounce |
| Shot size | #7½ |
| Velocity | 1250 fps |
| Wad | Paper |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Crimp | 8-Point Star |
| Rounds/box | 25 |
| Intended use | Target |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Country of origin | United States of America |
Top Gun steel loads fit shooters building proficiency with steel patterns before waterfowl season or competing at ranges with no-lead mandates. Paper wads eliminate the plastic residue debate, and clean-burning powder keeps actions cleaner across case lots. Browse our full steel shot shells inventory for additional gauges and shot sizes.
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 firearms safety at all times.
- Verify current state and local ammunition laws before ordering.
- Steel shot is non-toxic and legal for waterfowl hunting; verify bore and choke compatibility before firing through older or thin-walled barrels.
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