Product Overview
Federal Shorty Shotshells deliver full-size performance in a compact 1¾-inch package, making them one of the most innovative 12-gauge loads on the market today. This rifled slug load pushes a 438-grain projectile at 1,200 FPS, offering impressive stopping power and accuracy despite its mini form factor.
- Compact 1¾-inch shell length fits standard 12-gauge chambers with ease
- 438-grain rifled slug delivers serious downrange energy and penetration
- Muzzle velocity of 1,200 FPS for flat, predictable slug trajectory
- Similar patterns and accuracy compared to full-size 12-gauge slug loads
- Convenient 10-round box ideal for range sessions and practice drills
- Engineered by Federal, a trusted name in American ammunition manufacturing
Who This Is For
Federal Shorty Slug shells are perfect for range enthusiasts, shotgun sport shooters, and hunters who want to explore the unique handling characteristics of mini shotshells without sacrificing meaningful ballistic performance. They're also a great option for shooters who want to run higher-capacity magazine tubes or simply enjoy the novelty and fun of shooting a well-engineered compact load from their existing 12-gauge firearm.
Specifications
| Brand | Federal |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 1¾ inch (Shorty) |
| Load Type | Rifled Slug |
| Bullet Weight | 438 Grain |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,200 FPS |
| Rounds Per Box | 10 |
| Application | Range, Target Shooting, Hunting |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Federal Shorty shells cycle reliably in my semi-automatic shotgun?
Federal Shorty shells are designed primarily for use in pump-action shotguns. Due to their reduced length and lower impulse, they may not generate enough energy to reliably cycle the action of most semi-automatic shotguns. Always verify compatibility with your specific firearm before use, and consult your owner's manual or the manufacturer for guidance.
How does the 1¾-inch rifled slug compare ballistically to a standard 2¾-inch slug?
While the Federal Shorty slug does produce slightly less energy than a full-size 2¾-inch counterpart due to reduced powder capacity, the 438-grain projectile at 1,200 FPS still delivers meaningful performance at typical range distances. For casual target shooting and short-range applications, shooters will find the accuracy and pattern consistency to be very comparable to standard loads.
Can I use these slugs for home defense or hunting in addition to range use?
Federal markets Shorty shells primarily as a range and recreational shooting option, but the rifled slug load's 438-grain weight and 1,200 FPS velocity does give it real-world capability. For hunting, check your local regulations regarding minimum load requirements. For home defense, reliability in your specific shotgun should be thoroughly tested before relying on any non-standard length shell for that purpose.
