First Impressions of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off
As an avid waterfowl hunter for over a decade, I’ve constantly been on the lookout for ammunition that offers both superior performance and reliability in the demanding environments I frequent. The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off promised consistent patterns and effective knockdown power, piquing my interest. With a substantial discount currently offered, the opportunity to test Apex Ammunition’s claims was too good to pass up.
My go-to waterfowl loads in the past have been Kent Fasteel and Winchester Blind Side. However, I’ve often found myself wishing for tighter patterns, especially on those longer shots across open water. The “perfect pellet uniformity” advertised by Apex Ammunition set this load apart.
Unboxing the ammunition revealed neatly packed shells. The shells felt solid and well-constructed. The vibrant red hull was a welcome change from the typical drab colors of other steel loads.
I considered other premium steel loads like Hevi-Metal, but the price point of the Apex Ammunition after the discount made it the more appealing option for a thorough testing. I was genuinely excited to see if these shells lived up to the hype surrounding their pattern consistency and overall performance. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, tempered by the anticipation of a rigorous field test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel was on a frigid morning in the flooded timber of Arkansas. The conditions were challenging, with intermittent rain and temperatures hovering around freezing. I primarily targeted mallards and wood ducks.
The ammunition cycled flawlessly through my Benelli Super Black Eagle II. I noted a significant reduction in perceived recoil compared to other 3″ steel loads I’ve used. The patterns at 40 yards were noticeably tighter than I was accustomed to seeing with standard steel BBs. Several ducks folded cleanly with minimal follow-up shots required.
There were no malfunctions, misfires, or any other issues during the initial outing. This gave me a high degree of confidence in the ammunition’s reliability right from the start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Apex Ammunition throughout the remainder of the waterfowl season, my initial positive impressions only strengthened. The ammunition consistently performed well in a variety of conditions, from dry, sunny days to blustery, snowy hunts. I fired approximately 150 rounds.
I observed no noticeable wear and tear on the shells themselves, even after being exposed to moisture and mud. The consistent performance and reliable cycling through my shotgun demonstrated the high quality of this Apex Ammunition load. I’ve found it to be significantly more reliable than some of the cheaper steel loads I’ve used in the past.
Compared to my previous experiences with Kent and Winchester steel loads, the Apex Ammunition clearly outperforms them in pattern consistency and knockdown power at longer ranges. The reduced recoil was a welcome bonus, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off
Specifications
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is a 12-gauge, 3-inch shell, holding 1 1/4 ounces of steel BB shot. The advertised muzzle velocity is 1450 ft/s.
Each box contains 25 rounds of centerfire primed ammunition, utilizing a plastic cartridge case. Being a steel load, it is entirely lead-free, making it compliant with regulations in areas where lead shot is prohibited. This is crucial for environmentally conscious hunters.
These specifications are not merely numbers; they translate directly into enhanced performance in the field. The shot weight and muzzle velocity combine to deliver significant energy downrange. The steel composition ensures that the ammunition is safe and effective in modern shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Apex Ammunition load performs exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and reliability. The tight patterns consistently put a high density of pellets on target. This drastically increases the chances of a clean kill, even at extended ranges.
The strengths of this ammunition lie in its consistent patterns, effective knockdown power, and relatively low recoil. However, the higher price point (even with the discount) could be a deterrent for some hunters. It is worth the investment for those seeking maximum performance.
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel meets and even exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of tight patterns and reliable performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Apex Ammunition shells is top-notch. The plastic hulls are robust and resistant to deformation. The shells load smoothly into the magazine.
The shells feel well-balanced and comfortable to handle. There is no noticeable learning curve required to use this ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
Given that it is ammunition, durability primarily refers to the shell’s ability to withstand the elements and perform reliably when fired. The Apex Ammunition shells seem to be constructed to last. I expect this ammunition to perform reliably for years to come if stored properly.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning your shotgun after use to prevent corrosion from steel shot residue. This is standard practice for any steel ammunition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel itself does not come with any specific accessories. However, its performance can be optimized by using a choke designed for steel shot. This is particularly important for achieving the tightest possible patterns.
Many shotgun manufacturers offer aftermarket chokes specifically designed for steel shot. Ensure compatibility with your specific shotgun model.
Pros and Cons of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off
Pros
- Incredibly tight and consistent patterns: This is the defining characteristic of this ammunition and what sets it apart from the competition.
- Effective knockdown power: The combination of shot weight and velocity delivers significant energy on target, ensuring clean kills.
- Relatively low recoil: Compared to other 3″ steel loads, the Apex Ammunition load produces manageable recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
- Reliable cycling: The ammunition cycles flawlessly through a variety of shotguns, minimizing the risk of malfunctions.
- Lead-free: Environmentally friendly and compliant with regulations in areas where lead shot is prohibited.
Cons
- The higher price point (even with the discount) may be a barrier for some hunters.
- Steel shot, regardless of brand, can be harder on barrels than lead, requiring careful cleaning and maintenance.
Who Should Buy Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off?
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand the highest levels of performance and reliability from their ammunition. It’s ideal for those who frequently take longer shots and need consistently tight patterns. This ammunition is a great option for hunters seeking an ethical and efficient harvest.
Hunters who are primarily concerned with budget and are willing to sacrifice some performance may want to consider cheaper steel loads. Those who primarily hunt at very close ranges may not fully appreciate the benefits of the Apex Ammunition’s tight patterns.
A must-have accessory is a choke specifically designed for steel shot to maximize pattern density. Consider a high-quality gun cleaning kit to properly maintain your shotgun barrel.
Conclusion on Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off
In summary, the Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” BB Shotgun Ammunition S312-BB 48% Off is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises of tight patterns, effective knockdown power, and reliable performance. While the price point is higher than some other steel loads, the significant improvement in performance more than justifies the cost, especially with the current discount.
The value proposition is excellent for serious waterfowl hunters who demand the best. I would wholeheartedly recommend this ammunition to anyone looking to improve their success rate in the field.
If you’re serious about waterfowl hunting and want ammunition that will give you a distinct advantage, don’t hesitate to give Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel a try. You won’t be disappointed. Invest in performance, invest in Apex Ammunition.