First Impressions of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend 12 Gauge 1 5/16 oz 3” 2/9 Shot Shotgun Ammunition WS3-2 26% Off
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend promises a lethal combination of knockdown power and pattern density, a claim that immediately piqued my interest as a seasoned waterfowl hunter. This 12-gauge, 3-inch shell boasts a blend of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) and S3 Steel, promising to virtually eliminate cripples, a frustrating experience every waterfowler knows all too well.
For years, I’ve chased waterfowl from the flooded timber of Arkansas to the windswept marshes of the Dakotas, and the constant search for the “perfect” load has been a never-ending quest. I’ve tried countless steel loads, bismuth alternatives, and even experimented with early TSS offerings, always looking for that edge that translates to cleaner kills and fewer birds lost.
Unboxing the Apex Ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the meticulous packaging; the shells were neatly arranged in their 25-round box. The deep crimson color of the hull is striking and instantly communicates the premium nature of the product. Holding a shell in my hand, it felt substantial, conveying a sense of quality and potent energy ready to be unleashed.
Compared to my standard steel loads from Federal and Winchester, the Apex Ammunition shells felt noticeably denser, a direct result of the TSS component. This difference in density promised tighter patterns and greater downrange energy, something I was eager to test. My primary reason for choosing the Apex Ammunition was the promise of reduced crippling and the potential for longer-range effectiveness.
My initial reaction was excitement, tempered by a bit of skepticism, as premium ammunition always comes with a premium price tag. Could the performance justify the cost? Only time in the field would tell, but I was definitely eager to see what this blend of TSS and S3 steel could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend 12 Gauge 1 5/16 oz 3” 2/9 Shot Shotgun Ammunition WS3-2 26% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Apex Ammunition came during an early teal season hunt on a heavily pressured public marsh in Louisiana. Conditions were typical for that time of year: humid, with a slight breeze and the occasional drizzle. I was hunting from a makeshift blind in the reeds, targeting teal as they zipped past at seemingly impossible speeds.
The first few shots with the Apex Ammunition were nothing short of eye-opening. The report was crisp and powerful, and the recoil, while noticeable, felt manageable. More importantly, the teal folded cleanly and decisively, with no birds requiring follow-up shots.
The clean kills instilled confidence. My previous hunts using standard steel loads in similar conditions often resulted in a frustrating number of wounded birds, requiring extensive and often unsuccessful searches.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of hunting with the Apex Ammunition, my initial impressions only solidified. The shells consistently delivered tight, dense patterns through my modified choke, and the knockdown power was undeniably superior to any steel load I had previously used. Even on longer shots, birds were consistently taken cleanly.
I hunted with the Apex Ammunition in a variety of conditions, from sunny days to pouring rain, and experienced no issues with reliability. The shells cycled flawlessly through my semi-automatic shotgun, and I never encountered a single misfire or malfunction. As for wear and tear, the shells performed flawlessly, and the components held up well to the rigors of the hunt.
Compared to my experiences with standard steel loads, the Apex Ammunition was a clear winner in terms of performance and reliability. The increased cost was offset by the reduced crippling and the increased confidence it inspired. This reduction meant fewer wasted shells and a more ethical hunt overall.
Breaking Down the Features of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend 12 Gauge 1 5/16 oz 3” 2/9 Shot Shotgun Ammunition WS3-2 26% Off
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Apex Ammunition. They are known for high-quality, specialized ammunition.
- Gauge: 12. This is the most common gauge for waterfowl hunting.
- Number of Rounds: 25. This is a standard box quantity.
- Shot Size: 2, 9. The duplex load combines the long-range energy of size 2 steel with the pattern density of size 9 TSS.
- Shell Length: 3 in. This length provides a higher payload capacity.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1450 ft/s. A high velocity helps to ensure sufficient energy at longer ranges.
- Application: Hunting, Waterfowl. Specifically designed for taking down waterfowl.
- Included Accessories: None. The box contains only the ammunition.
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 5/16 oz. This is a hefty payload, contributing to increased power.
- Shot Material: Steel/TSS Blend. Combining steel with the higher density of TSS offers a blend of affordability and performance.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Provides reliable ignition in various conditions.
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic. A standard material for shotgun shells.
- Lead Free: Yes. Meets regulations for waterfowl hunting in many areas.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance of the ammunition in the field. The combination of high velocity, heavy payload, and duplex shot design is specifically tailored to deliver maximum pattern density and knockdown power on waterfowl at various ranges. The use of steel and TSS ensures compliance with environmental regulations while also providing superior ballistic performance compared to traditional steel loads.
Performance & Functionality
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend performs exceptionally well, delivering on its promise of tighter patterns and increased knockdown power. I found that the pattern density was noticeably improved compared to standard steel loads, resulting in more consistent and lethal hits, even at longer ranges. There were no malfunctions observed during testing.
One of the greatest strengths of this ammunition is its ability to effectively dispatch birds at distances that would typically result in crippling with standard steel loads. This is largely due to the higher density of the TSS component, which retains energy better downrange. The combination of the steel and TSS creates a very effective pattern that minimizes gaps.
While the ammunition performed admirably, it’s worth noting that the recoil is slightly more pronounced compared to lighter steel loads. This is a trade-off for the increased power and payload, and most experienced shotgunners will find it manageable. However, smaller-framed shooters might find it less comfortable.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Apex Ammunition shells is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary frills. The hulls are constructed from high-quality plastic and are crimped securely to prevent shot leakage. The shells load smoothly into the shotgun and eject cleanly after firing.
The deep crimson color of the hull is not only visually appealing but also serves as a quick identifier in the field, making it easy to distinguish from other types of ammunition. The weight of the shells is slightly heavier than standard steel loads, which contributes to the increased recoil but also reinforces the feeling of quality and power. The weight of the shell felt comfortable while reloading during fast shooting situations.
There is no learning curve associated with using the Apex Ammunition. They function just like any other shotgun shell, and the results are immediately noticeable in the field. The Apex Ammunition provides excellent performance in an ergonomic package.
Durability & Maintenance
The Apex Ammunition shells are designed to be durable and withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. I experienced no issues with the shells becoming damaged or deformed, even after being exposed to wet and muddy conditions. The primer is sealed effectively, preventing moisture from penetrating and causing misfires.
Maintenance is minimal, as the shells are disposable and require no cleaning or upkeep. However, it’s always a good practice to inspect your ammunition regularly for any signs of damage or corrosion. Keep shells in a cool, dry place for optimal results and shelf life.
Assuming proper storage, the Apex Ammunition shells should last for many years without any degradation in performance. The shell is designed to resist damage through storage and handling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Apex Ammunition shells themselves do not require any specific accessories or customization options. They are designed to be used in any standard 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 3-inch shells. However, the performance of the ammunition can be optimized by selecting the appropriate choke for your shotgun and hunting conditions.
I found that a modified choke provided the best balance of pattern density and range with the Apex Ammunition. Experimenting with different chokes can help you fine-tune the pattern to match the specific distances at which you typically engage targets. The choke you choose can dramatically alter the shell’s effective range.
Some hunters may also choose to add aftermarket recoil pads to their shotguns to further mitigate the effects of recoil, although I personally found this to be unnecessary with the Apex Ammunition. Aftermarket recoil pads can provide more comfort when firing larger shells.
Pros and Cons of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend 12 Gauge 1 5/16 oz 3” 2/9 Shot Shotgun Ammunition WS3-2 26% Off
Pros
- Superior knockdown power compared to standard steel loads.
- Tighter, denser patterns for increased accuracy and range.
- Reduced crippling and fewer lost birds.
- Reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Lead-free and compliant with environmental regulations.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to standard steel loads.
- Slightly more pronounced recoil.
- May not be ideal for smaller-framed shooters due to recoil.
Who Should Buy Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend 12 Gauge 1 5/16 oz 3” 2/9 Shot Shotgun Ammunition WS3-2 26% Off?
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who are looking for the best possible performance and are willing to invest in premium ammunition. It is particularly well-suited for hunters who frequently encounter longer shots or hunt in areas with pressured birds that require maximum knockdown power. Those who prioritize ethical, clean kills will also appreciate the benefits of this ammunition.
This ammunition may not be the best choice for casual hunters who only occasionally pursue waterfowl or those who are primarily concerned with cost. Smaller-framed shooters who are sensitive to recoil may also want to consider lighter loads or shotguns with recoil reduction systems. The price point of the shell may simply be too high for some hunters.
A must-have accessory for this ammunition is a high-quality choke that is optimized for steel and TSS shot. Experimenting with different chokes can significantly improve pattern density and range. Consider the choke to optimize the shell performance.
Conclusion on Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend 12 Gauge 1 5/16 oz 3” 2/9 Shot Shotgun Ammunition WS3-2 26% Off
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend is a top-tier waterfowl load that delivers exceptional performance in the field. While the price may be higher than standard steel loads, the increased knockdown power, tighter patterns, and reduced crippling make it a worthwhile investment for serious waterfowl hunters. The value proposition lies in the superior performance and ethical advantage it provides.
I would personally recommend the Apex Ammunition to any waterfowl hunter who is looking for the best possible ammunition for their shotgun. If you are serious about waterfowl hunting, the performance will make the extra cost worth it.
In conclusion, if you’re tired of chasing cripples and want to maximize your success in the field, give the Apex Ammunition Waterfowl TSS/S3 Steel Blend a try. You won’t be disappointed. Go get some!