SHOT 2020: Federal's HammerDown Lever-Gun Ammo

by
posted on January 21, 2020
stop-hammertime2.jpg

The 2020 SHOT Show Industry Day At The Range Event is the biggest event of the calendar year for any firearms professional. Here, industry professionals try out products literally just minutes after they are released to the public. Ammunition giant Federal Premium has always released some big products at this time, and this year was no different with the introduction of their HammerDown line.

These rounds have been created in conjunction with Henry Repeating Arms and represent the latest iteration of lever gun food. As I stuffed the tube of the lever-action rifle, product line manager Eric Miller explained that their introductory offerings will include .327 Federal Magnum, .357 Magnum, .44 Rem. Mag, .45 Colt, .30-30 Win and even the thunderous .45-70 Gov’t. Each round is built with a nickel case for smooth feeding and easy visualization in the low light scenarios that accompany hunting. Powder charges are also better suited for the typical carbine-length barrels that most lever guns wear. This includes the .327 Federal Magnum, .357 Magnum and .44 Rem. Mag., as these are typically loaded for pistols.

While I was loading I noticed the chambered case rim, and for a good reason: They didn’t get stuck against the side gate of the rifle like typical ammunition usually does. After leveling the barrel of the Henry side gate lever action, I fired a string of the new .30-30 ammunition at the 25-yard targets...connecting on every one. I found the rounds produced a moderate amount of recoil for this cartridge, ensuring adequate power for an ethical harvest. Walking away I thanked Eric for his time and dedication to yet another excellent product from Federal Premium.

Visit Federalpremium.com for more information.

Latest

Crosman M4 177
Crosman M4 177

Reviewed: Crosman M4-177 Air Rifle

Interested in an M4/AR-style pump airgun for backyard fun? Check out Crosman’s M4-177. Here are the details of our test.

Rising Shooting Stars: Jenna Boykin

Quality training can turn a pastime into a passion.

Gun Safety: Squib Loads

Well, THAT just didn't sound right...what to do now?

First Impressions: Mossberg 990 Aftershock

It's a firearm, not a shotgun, and it debuted at the 2025 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits! Here's a first look.

When Gun Safety is Fun: NRA Youth Day at the NRA Annual Meetings

This yearly event draws hundreds of kids, some well on their way to being experts, and some new to the outdoors world.

First Impressions: Rossi R95 TBP (Triple Black Pistol)

"Shooters have been asking for a compact, powerful version of the R95, and we listened."

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.