Federal Black Cloud 16 Gauge waterfowl shotshells (brand part no. PWBX167 2) load 7/8 ounce of #2 steel shot at 1450 feet per second in a gauge that has become a favorite among waterfowlers who want something different from the usual 12. Federal built this load around the FliteControl Flex wad, a rear-opening design that improves pattern density and consistency through both ported and standard waterfowl chokes. The payload blends FliteStopper steel pellets with standard Premium steel for dense, hard-hitting patterns on ducks and geese. In a 16 gauge, a format many hunters consider the sweet spot between recoil and payload, this shell brings full waterfowl performance to a classic-format gun.

Key Specifications

• The gauge is 16, a classic, less-common format that waterfowl hunters seek out for its balance of payload and recoil.
• The shell length is 2-3/4 inches, standard for 16 gauge waterfowl chambers.
• The payload weighs 7/8 ounce, a solid charge for a 16 gauge waterfowl shell.
• The shot size is #2 steel, sized for medium to large waterfowl at typical shooting distances.
• Muzzle velocity is 1450 feet per second, delivering fast, hard-hitting performance on ducks and geese.
• The FliteControl Flex wad opens from the rear, improving pattern density and consistency through ported and standard chokes alike.
• The payload mixes FliteStopper and Premium steel pellets, combining dense patterns with larger wound channels.
• The case features a plated head and sealed crimp, resisting corrosion and keeping out moisture in wet field conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose 16 gauge for waterfowl? It splits the difference between 12 and 20 gauge, cutting recoil while Black Cloud’s steel payload still delivers full waterfowl performance.

Does the FliteControl Flex wad need a special choke? No, it patterns tightly through both ported and standard waterfowl chokes.

What does the FliteStopper and Premium steel blend do? It combines two pellet types for denser patterns and larger wound channels on ducks and geese.

Buy Federal Black Cloud 16 Gauge Waterfowl Shells

Sixteen gauge waterfowl hunters know good ammunition for the format can be hard to find, and Black Cloud fills that gap with a load built to compete with any 12 gauge in the blind. Pattern it through your favorite waterfowl choke before the season opens and see the FliteControl Flex wad go to work. Shop more Federal Ammunition and shotgun shells from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop, shipped fast to your door.