Federal PTDX258567 3rd Degree TSS 20 Gauge 3" 1 1/2 oz 6 Shot 5 Shot 7 Shot 5 Bx/ 50 Cs

The Ultimate 20-Gauge Ammunition for Turkey Hunters: Federal Premium 3rd Degree

For dedicated turkey hunters, success hinges on precision, reliability, and versatility in the field. The Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge 3" 1 1/2 oz 5/6/7 Shot ammunition is meticulously engineered to address the unique challenges of turkey hunting, providing a single shell solution that excels at varying shot distances. Whether a gobbler hangs up at 10 yards or steps out to 50, hunters need confidence in their payload – and 3rd Degree delivers.

This ammunition is designed for those who demand uncompromising performance from their shotgun. It's for the hunter who understands that inconsistent patterns or insufficient penetration can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. Federal Premium 3rd Degree solves the critical problem of variable shot distances by combining three distinct types of shot in a single, powerful load, ensuring optimal pattern density and lethal energy transfer at all practical ranges.

Unlocking Unprecedented Turkey Hunting Performance

The foundation of Federal Premium's renowned quality begins with its components. Each 3rd Degree shell is built from the ground up with the finest primers and propellants in the industry. The primers undergo rigorous inspections for dimensional tolerances and charge weight, guaranteeing consistent ignition with every pull of the trigger. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that hunters can rely on their ammunition, shot after shot, season after season.

Complementing these primers are propellants specially formulated to meet Federal's stringent specifications. These clean-burning powders are not only of the highest grades available but are also celebrated for their consistency and reliability. This means predictable performance, shot after shot, minimizing the variables that can affect accuracy and terminal effectiveness in the field.

The Engineered Advantage: Three-Stage Payload Technology

Unlike conventional turkey loads that aim solely for tight patterns, Federal Premium 3rd Degree utilizes a revolutionary three-stage payload system. This innovative approach ensures wider, more forgiving patterns at close range while maintaining devastating penetration at extended distances. This multi-shot combination is the core of its versatility and effectiveness, making it a game-changer for turkey hunters.

• Close-Range Forgiveness: No. 5 Copper-Plated Lead
  The first stage of this advanced payload consists of a segment of No. 5 copper-plated lead shot. This larger, traditional lead shot is strategically included to spread out quickly upon exiting the barrel. Its purpose is to deliver a wider, more forgiving pattern at close range – typically under 20 yards. For those unexpected moments when a gobbler bursts into view at point-blank distance, this initial spread ensures a higher probability of striking the vitals, minimizing the chance of missing due to an overly tight pattern. This aspect makes the 3rd Degree an excellent choice for hunting in dense timber or brush where close encounters are common.
• Mid-Range Lethality: No. 6 FLITESTOPPER Lead
  The second stage integrates No. 6 FLITESTOPPER lead shot. This shot features Federal's unique FLITESTOPPER ring, which creates a cutting action upon impact, enhancing energy transfer and creating larger wound channels. At mid-range distances, generally between 20 and 40 yards, this component delivers a dense, effective pattern that combines excellent penetration with increased tissue damage, ensuring a decisive and ethical harvest. The FLITESTOPPER technology is a testament to Federal's commitment to optimizing every aspect of their ammunition for superior field performance.
• Extended-Range Powerhouse: 18 g/cc No. 7 HEAVYWEIGHT TSS
  The third, and arguably most revolutionary, component is the 18 g/cc No. 7 HEAVYWEIGHT TSS (Tungsten Super Shot). This ultra-dense shot is 2.2 times denser than lead, meaning a smaller pellet carries significantly more energy and maintains its velocity and pattern density over much greater distances. The No. 7 TSS pellets are designed to reach out and deliver lethal strikes to gobblers at long distances, extending the effective range of the 20-gauge platform well beyond what was traditionally thought possible. This component ensures that even when a wary tom holds up at 50 yards or more, hunters can still deliver a powerful, pattern-dense payload for a clean kill.

Precision Patterning with FLITECONTROL FLEX Wad

The synergistic performance of this three-stage payload is further enhanced by Federal's innovative FLITECONTROL FLEX wad. This wad technology is designed to deliver consistent, tight patterns through any choke, including ported and non-ported options. Unlike traditional wads that immediately peel open upon exiting the barrel, the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad features unique rear-deploying flaps and an engineered braking system. This design allows the wad to stay with the shot column for a longer period, resulting in a more controlled, uniform pattern at the muzzle. Once clear of the barrel, the wad then opens cleanly, releasing the shot payload with optimal consistency and density downrange.

This specialized wad is critical for preventing blown patterns, especially at close range with the spreading No. 5 lead, and for maintaining the integrity of the TSS and FLITESTOPPER shot for longer distances. The result is superior pattern efficiency and distribution, maximizing the number of pellets on target where it counts – the turkey's head and neck.

Why Choose Federal Premium 3rd Degree?

Choosing the right ammunition is a critical decision for any turkey hunter. Federal Premium 3rd Degree stands out as a top-tier option for a multitude of reasons, directly addressing common hunter needs and desires.

• Unwavering Consistency and Reliability: From the meticulously inspected primers to the high-grade, clean-burning propellants, every component of 3rd Degree is chosen and manufactured for peak performance. This translates to dependable ignition, consistent velocities, and predictable patterns shot after shot, building immense confidence in the field.
• Ethical Hunting and Increased Success Rates: The multi-stage payload ensures that whether a turkey is at 10 yards or 50, the hunter has the appropriate pattern density and penetration to achieve a clean, ethical kill. This versatility minimizes the risk of crippling birds and maximizes the likelihood of a successful harvest, enhancing the overall hunting experience.
• Versatility Across All Turkey Distances: The ability to perform effectively at close, mid, and long ranges with a single load eliminates the need for specialized ammunition for different scenarios. Hunters can focus on the hunt, knowing their ammunition is ready for any opportunity the gobbler presents.
• Reduced Recoil for Enhanced Shooting Comfort: While 20-gauge shotguns inherently produce less recoil than 12-gauge, the precise engineering of the 3rd Degree load and its efficient powder burn contribute to a smooth shooting experience. This can lead to less flinching, quicker follow-up shots if needed, and overall improved accuracy during critical moments.
• Optimized for 20-Gauge Platforms: Recognizing the growing popularity of 20-gauge shotguns for their lighter weight and maneuverability, Federal Premium has specifically engineered this load to maximize the potential of this gauge. It allows 20-gauge users to achieve performance previously thought exclusive to heavier 12-gauge loads, making their setup incredibly effective for turkey hunting.

Frequently Asked Questions by Turkey Hunters

As hunters prepare for spring turkey season or fall hunts, many questions arise regarding ammunition performance and selection. Federal Premium 3rd Degree addresses many of these common inquiries directly through its design and capabilities:

What is the optimal range for Federal 3rd Degree ammunition?
Federal Premium 3rd Degree is optimized for a broad range of turkey hunting scenarios, from tight close-quarter shots within 20 yards to challenging long-distance engagements out to 50 yards and beyond. Its three-stage payload ensures lethal performance across this entire spectrum, making it incredibly versatile for hunters facing varied terrain and bird behavior.

How does 3rd Degree differ from conventional turkey loads?
Traditional turkey loads often prioritize a single, extremely tight pattern, which can lead to misses at close range if the pattern doesn't open quickly enough. 3rd Degree's innovative design uses three different shot types (No. 5 copper-plated lead, No. 6 FLITESTOPPER lead, and No. 7 HEAVYWEIGHT TSS) and the FLITECONTROL FLEX wad to create a more forgiving, yet still lethal, pattern at close ranges while retaining devastating penetration for extended shots. This "best of both worlds" approach sets it apart from conventional offerings.

Can I use Federal 3rd Degree in any 20-gauge shotgun?
Yes, Federal Premium 3rd Degree is designed for use in any 20-gauge shotgun chambered for 3-inch shells. The FLITECONTROL FLEX wad is specifically engineered to perform consistently through all choke types, including ported and non-ported chokes. Hunters should always confirm their shotgun's chamber length before use.

Where can I purchase Federal Premium 3rd Degree ammunition?
Federal Premium 3rd Degree ammunition, including the 20 Gauge 3" 1 1/2 oz 5/6/7 Shot (UPC: 604544626698, SKU: PTDX258567), is available from reputable firearm and ammunition retailers. Hunters seeking to equip themselves with this advanced turkey load can find it readily available at DEGuns, a trusted source for premium ammunition and shooting sports accessories. Ensure you check for the specific SKU PTDX258567 for the exact product.

Elevate Your Turkey Season with Federal Premium 3rd Degree

The pursuit of wild turkeys demands ammunition that rises to the occasion. Federal Premium 3rd Degree shotgun shells are not just another load; they are a sophisticated solution crafted for the discerning turkey hunter. They embody Federal's commitment to innovation, reliability, and ultimately, success in the field. By integrating different shot types with advanced wad technology, Federal has created a 20-gauge load that offers unprecedented versatility, pattern efficiency, and terminal performance across the full spectrum of turkey hunting distances.

Invest in ammunition that gives you the confidence to take any shot the woods present. The Federal Premium 3rd Degree 20 Gauge is designed to help you fill your tag, ensuring ethical harvests and memorable hunts. Prepare for your next turkey season with the proven performance of 3rd Degree, available from leading retailers like DEGuns.

Technical Specifications for the Discerning Hunter