First Impressions of Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off
For years, I’ve relied on traditional lead and steel shot for waterfowl hunting, achieving mixed results and always feeling like I was leaving something on the table in terms of range and lethality. The promise of Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off, with its Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), intrigued me, suggesting a significant upgrade in performance for my beloved 28 gauge. Could this be the ammunition that unlocks the full potential of my smaller gauge shotgun, providing the knockdown power of larger gauges without the punishing recoil?
My quest for this ammunition stemmed from a growing frustration with crippling birds that managed to fly away. Too often, birds would appear untouched only to later succumb to their wounds; I wanted a load that would ensure ethical, clean kills at extended ranges. I had read countless articles about the performance of TSS in larger gauges, but was skeptical about whether the advantage would translate to the diminutive 28.
Upon receiving the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off, the first thing I noticed was the sleek, black packaging, a departure from the brighter, more colorful boxes of other waterfowl loads. The shells themselves are a deep black color and are very clean and consistently loaded. Picking one up, they felt noticeably denser than any lead or steel 28 gauge load I’d handled.
I considered several alternatives before settling on the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off. Kent Cartridge’s Bismuth loads were a contender, but they don’t offer the same density as TSS and Fiocchi Golden Waterfowl were considered because of the price. Ultimately, I chose Apex because of the documented performance of TSS on larger waterfowl and the reputation of Apex Ammunition.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. The price point is significantly higher than traditional waterfowl loads, and I needed to see firsthand if the performance justified the cost. Could this small shell truly deliver the performance Apex Ammunition promised?
Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test was during an early teal season on a shallow, flooded marsh. The conditions were typical for early September: warm, humid, and with a slight breeze. I set up my decoys, loaded my 28 gauge, and waited for the first flock of teal to wing their way in.
The initial shots were impressive. At typical teal ranges of 20-30 yards, the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off dropped the birds cleanly and decisively. There was no struggling, no prolonged flapping; they simply folded and fell.
The ease of use was remarkable; the ammunition cycled flawlessly through my semi-automatic 28 gauge. There was no noticeable increase in recoil compared to the steel loads I typically used. Even in the humid conditions, the shells loaded smoothly, and the primers ignited reliably every time.
After the first volley of shots, I did notice a slightly different sound signature compared to steel loads. The report was sharper, with a more pronounced crack. This wasn’t a drawback, but it was definitely noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of hunting with the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off, my initial impressions were confirmed: this ammunition is a game-changer. The increased density of the TSS shot translated to significantly improved range and lethality.
Even after being exposed to damp conditions in my blind and in the marsh, the shells remained in pristine condition. The plastic hulls showed no signs of swelling or deformation. I have found that the Apex Ammunition shells are easy to clean, requiring just a quick wipe down to remove any mud or debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with steel and lead shot, the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off outperformed them in every aspect. The tighter patterns and increased energy transfer resulted in fewer crippled birds and cleaner kills at longer ranges. This ammunition has truly elevated the performance of my 28 gauge shotgun.
Breaking Down the Features of Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off
Specifications
The Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off boasts impressive specifications:
- Gauge: 28
- Number of Rounds: 10
- Shot Size: 7.5
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 inches
- Muzzle Velocity: 1350 ft/s
- Application: Hunting, Waterfowl
- Shot Weight: 3/4 oz
- Shot Material: Tungsten
- Primer Style: Centerfire
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic
- Lead Free: Yes
- Color: Black
These specifications translate directly to improved performance in the field. The Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), being significantly denser than lead or steel, retains energy and penetrates deeper at longer ranges. The 7.5 shot size is optimal for waterfowl, providing a dense pattern that increases the odds of a clean hit. The 1350 ft/s muzzle velocity ensures the shot reaches the target quickly, reducing the lead needed on crossing shots.
Performance & Functionality
The Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off performs exceptionally well, delivering consistently tight patterns and devastating knockdown power on waterfowl. Its accuracy is remarkable; I have been able to consistently hit targets at distances that would have been questionable with traditional steel loads.
One significant strength is the reduction in crippled birds. The increased energy transfer of the TSS shot ensures that birds are cleanly taken down, reducing suffering and improving ethical hunting practices. The Apex Ammunition shells cycle smoothly through my semi-automatic shotgun, preventing jamming or misfires.
One potential area for improvement would be a slightly lower price point. The cost of TSS ammunition is a barrier for some hunters. However, the improved performance and increased success rate may justify the higher price for serious waterfowl hunters.
Overall, the ammunition meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering exceptional performance in the field. The pattern density and knockdown power are on par with 12-gauge loads. This provides a lighter, more manageable package for smaller statured shooters or hunters looking for less recoil.
Design & Ergonomics
The black Apex Ammunition shells are sleek and modern. The construction quality is excellent, with consistent crimps and clean primers. The shells load smoothly and cycle reliably, indicating a well-designed and manufactured product.
The weight of the shells is slightly higher than traditional steel loads, due to the density of the TSS shot. This is hardly a drawback, and is arguably a benefit, as the weight helps to dampen recoil in lighter shotguns. There is absolutely no learning curve associated with using this product; load them into your shotgun and enjoy the increased performance.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off shells are very durable. The plastic hulls hold up well to repeated handling and exposure to the elements. As long as the ammunition is stored properly, it should last for many years.
The shells require minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down to remove any mud or debris is all that’s needed to keep them in good condition. The sealed primers and consistent crimps prevent moisture from entering the shells, ensuring reliable ignition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off is compatible with any 28-gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells. There are no specific accessories or modifications needed to use this ammunition. However, it is important to pattern your shotgun with this ammunition to determine the optimal choke for your hunting conditions.
A tighter choke, such as a full or modified choke, may be beneficial for maximizing the effective range of the TSS shot. It is recommended to use a choke specifically designed for steel or tungsten shot, as some older chokes may not be compatible with these harder materials. No special cleaning tools or solvents are required; standard shotgun cleaning supplies are sufficient.
Pros and Cons of Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off
Pros
- Exceptional knockdown power: The TSS shot delivers devastating energy transfer, ensuring clean kills.
- Extended range: The higher density of TSS allows for longer-range shots with confidence.
- Tighter patterns: The shot holds together better, resulting in denser and more consistent patterns.
- Reduced crippled birds: Ethical hunting is improved due to cleaner, more lethal hits.
- Cycles reliably: The ammunition functions flawlessly in semi-automatic shotguns.
Cons
- High price point: The cost of TSS ammunition is significantly higher than traditional loads.
- Limited availability: May be harder to find in some areas compared to steel or lead shot.
Who Should Buy Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off?
The Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand the highest level of performance from their ammunition. It is ideal for those who hunt in areas where non-toxic shot is required. It is also a great option for hunters who want to maximize the effective range of their 28-gauge shotgun.
Hunters who are on a tight budget or who only hunt waterfowl occasionally may want to consider alternative ammunition options. Those who primarily hunt over decoys at close range may not see a significant benefit from the increased range and knockdown power of TSS. You do not need any must-have accessories or modifications to use this ammunition, but patterning your shotgun and choosing the appropriate choke are recommended.
Conclusion on Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off
The Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off is a premium waterfowl load that delivers exceptional performance in the field. The increased density of the TSS shot translates to longer range, tighter patterns, and devastating knockdown power. While the price point is higher than traditional loads, the improved performance and ethical hunting practices may justify the cost for serious waterfowl hunters.
The price is justified due to the superior performance of TSS compared to traditional lead or steel shot. It provides a clear advantage in terms of range, pattern density, and knockdown power. Yes, I would personally recommend this ammunition to any waterfowl hunter who is looking to maximize the performance of their 28-gauge shotgun and ensure ethical, clean kills.
If you’re ready to experience the difference that TSS can make in your waterfowl hunting, give the Apex Ammunition TSS Z-Series Waterfowl 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75W 22% Off a try. You won’t be disappointed.