Description

Federal Raptor Steel 12ga 3in 4 Shot shells were developed by Federal with Rob Roberts Custom Gunworks to get the tightest, most efficient patterns from Raptor Series chokes. Each 3 inch 12 gauge shell carries a heavy 1 3/8 ounce payload of #4 steel, about 264 pellets, at roughly 1,400 feet per second. The velocity is matched to the payload to put more lethal pellets on target. Each box holds 25 rounds.
- Built Around the Raptor Choke System
- Federal Raptor Steel 12ga 3in 4 Shot Specifications
- Field Notes and Choke Tips
Built Around the Raptor Choke System
Rob Roberts Raptor Series chokes are known among waterfowlers for their efficient patterns. Federal worked with Rob Roberts and his team to build a load that complements those chokes. Rather than chasing the highest possible velocity, this load pairs a heavy steel payload with a carefully selected speed, which produces dense patterns and short, effective shot strings.
#4 steel is a favorite for decoying ducks. A 1 3/8 ounce charge holds about 264 pellets, filling the pattern and increasing the chance of multiple hits on the head and vitals. That density is especially useful on smaller, fast flying species and on birds that flare at close range.
Federal’s high performance primers and clean burning propellant keep ignition consistent in cold weather and help semi-automatic shotguns run reliably through a long day in the blind.
Federal Raptor Steel 12ga 3in 4 Shot Specifications
These figures follow Federal’s published data for item RRS138 4, which matches the SportsSouth listing for UPC 604544709254.
- Brand: Federal Premium
- Product line: Rob Roberts Raptor Steel
- Manufacturer item number: RRS1384
- Gauge: 12 gauge
- Shell length: 3 inch
- Payload: 1 3/8 oz steel
- Shot size: #4 (about 264 pellets)
- Velocity: about 1,400 fps
- Optimized for: Rob Roberts Raptor Series chokes
- Rounds per box: 25
Field Notes and Choke Tips
For best results, shoot Federal Raptor Steel 12ga 3in 4 Shot shells through a Rob Roberts Raptor Series choke matched to your shotgun. These loads also perform well through other steel rated chokes, but pattern your gun to confirm.
Use these shells for ducks over decoys, including mallards, gadwall, wigeon, teal and wood ducks. The dense #4 pattern shines inside 40 yards.
Confirm your shotgun is chambered for 3 inch shells, plug it for migratory birds, and follow all federal and state waterfowl regulations. Carry your federal duck stamp and state license.
Keep shells dry in a waterproof bag and wipe them down after wet hunts to prevent rust on steel shot.
If you run Rob Roberts Raptor chokes or simply want a dense, efficient #4 steel load for decoying ducks, Federal Raptor Steel 12ga 3in 4 Shot shells are a powerful, proven choice. Pair them with motion decoys and a quality call.
Choke and load pairing is one of the easiest ways to improve your waterfowl shooting. Many hunters spend money on a new shotgun or more decoys while overlooking the pattern their gun actually throws. Spending an afternoon patterning Federal Raptor Steel 12ga 3in 4 Shot shells through your chokes shows exactly where your pellets go and helps you choose the right setup for each hunt.
Heavy payloads do carry more recoil, so a good recoil pad and proper gun fit make a difference over a full morning of shooting. Many waterfowlers wear several layers in cold weather, which changes length of pull; practice mounting your shotgun while wearing your hunting coat so your cheek weld stays consistent.
After each hunt, clean mud and water from your choke threads and action. Rob Roberts chokes and any extended choke tubes should be removed, cleaned and lightly lubricated regularly to prevent seizing.
Comparing premium steel loads? See Federal Ultra Steel 12ga 3in 2 Shot, or read Federal’s Rob Roberts Raptor Steel product page for full specs.








Reviews
There are no reviews yet.