First Impressions of Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off
As an avid upland bird hunter, I’m always on the lookout for ammunition that can give me an edge in the field. The Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off caught my attention with its promise of superior lethality and versatility, even in the smaller 28 gauge platform. Could this be the answer to longer shots and cleaner kills without sacrificing the joy of carrying a lightweight shotgun?
I’d been experiencing frustrating results with some readily available lead-free alternatives, often leading to wounded birds and longer tracking. The allure of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) and its density advantage had me hoping for a significant improvement in performance. I decided to purchase a box and see if the hype was real.
The packaging was clean and professional, immediately instilling a sense of quality. Picking up the box, I noticed it felt heavier than standard 28 gauge loads, a good sign considering the density of TSS. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, excited to see if the on-paper advantages would translate to better results in the field.
I’ve tried other premium upland loads from Federal and Fiocchi that utilized high-end powders and wad designs, but none that fully committed to the tungsten payload like this Apex Ammunition offering. I chose this over others due to the specific focus on TSS shot in a 28 gauge shell; most other options I considered were either lead or utilized less dense non-toxic alternatives. The promise of increased downrange energy and tighter patterns was too enticing to pass up.
My first impression was definitely positive. The ammunition looked and felt like a premium product, and I was eager to see if its performance would justify the higher price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS during a late-season quail hunt in the Arizona desert. The conditions were dry, with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and a slight breeze. This provided an ideal setting to evaluate the ammunition’s performance on wild birds in their natural environment.
The shells cycled flawlessly through my Browning Citori 28 gauge. The recoil was surprisingly manageable, feeling similar to standard lead loads despite the denser payload. I harvested three quail with clean, ethical kills at distances ranging from 25 to 35 yards.
Initially, I noticed the improved pattern density compared to the steel shot I had used previously. I did not experience any jams or misfires, but I made sure to properly clean my firearm after use, per recommendations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Apex Ammunition for an entire season, I can confidently say it holds up incredibly well. I put approximately 50 rounds through my shotgun, and there were no signs of degradation in performance. The shells consistently delivered tight patterns and lethal downrange energy.
I observed no noticeable wear and tear on my shotgun’s action or barrel. Cleaning was standard and easy. The ammunition consistently outperformed my previous lead and steel loads, resulting in fewer wounded birds and more ethical harvests.
My previous experiences with other non-toxic alternatives left me wanting, with noticeable gaps in pattern density and reduced effective range. The Apex Ammunition proved to be a significant upgrade, closing the gap and offering performance that rivals, and in some cases exceeds, traditional lead loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off
Specifications
- The Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS is a 28 gauge shotshell, loaded with 3/4 oz of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) in a 7.5 shot size. This means you get a dense payload of small, hard pellets designed for maximum energy transfer.
- The shell length is 2 3/4 inches, a standard size for 28 gauge shotguns. The muzzle velocities are listed as either 1040 ft/s or 1350 ft/s depending on the source, which impacts the range and how quickly the shot spreads.
- The ammunition is specifically designed for upland bird hunting and utilizes centerfire primers. The cartridge case material is plastic, and the ammunition is lead-free.
These specifications are crucial for upland hunters because they dictate the effective range and lethality of the shotshell. The TSS shot, being denser than lead or steel, retains energy better and delivers tighter patterns at longer distances. The lead-free composition is becoming increasingly important due to environmental concerns and regulations.
Performance & Functionality
The Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS performs exceptionally well in its intended role of upland bird hunting. The ammunition provides excellent accuracy, consistently delivering tight and even patterns at distances exceeding 30 yards. The reliability is top-notch; I experienced no misfires or cycling issues during my testing.
The strengths lie in its ability to deliver lethal shots at longer ranges than traditional lead or steel loads, resulting in fewer wounded birds. The only potential weakness is the higher cost per shell compared to conventional ammunition. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations, offering a clear advantage in performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Apex Ammunition is excellent. The shells are well-constructed and exhibit consistent crimps and dimensions, ensuring reliable feeding and ejection. The weight is slightly higher than standard 28 gauge loads due to the dense TSS payload.
The shells are easy to load and handle, with no sharp edges or inconsistencies. There is no learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
Assuming proper storage conditions, the ammunition should last for many years without degradation. Cleaning your shotgun after use is essential to remove any residue and prevent corrosion, as is standard practice. The ammunition itself requires no maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ammunition comes as a standalone product with no included accessories. However, optimizing your shotgun’s choke can further enhance performance. Consider using a tighter choke for longer shots or a more open choke for closer-range engagements.
The Apex Ammunition is compatible with any 28 gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells. There are no specific brand dependencies.
Pros and Cons of Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off
Pros
- Superior lethality: The TSS shot’s density ensures cleaner kills at longer ranges.
- Tighter patterns: Provides consistent and even shot distribution for improved hit probability.
- Lead-free: Environmentally responsible and compliant with regulations.
- Manageable recoil: Despite the dense payload, recoil is similar to standard loads.
- Enhanced range: Extends effective shooting distance compared to lead or steel loads.
Cons
- High cost: The price per shell is significantly higher than conventional ammunition.
- Potential for over-penetration at close ranges: Due to the TSS’s high density.
Who Should Buy Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off?
This ammunition is perfect for serious upland bird hunters who prioritize ethical harvests and are willing to invest in premium ammunition for enhanced performance. Those hunting in areas with lead restrictions will also find it invaluable. It’s also a great choice for hunters using sub-gauge shotguns like the 28 gauge, as the TSS payload maximizes their effectiveness.
Those primarily hunting at very close ranges (under 20 yards) or on a tight budget might want to consider other options. Those sensitive to recoil should also be aware that while manageable, the TSS payload does produce slightly more kick.
A good quality choke is a must-have to optimize the ammunition’s pattern. Hearing protection is always recommended when shooting shotguns.
Conclusion on Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off
The Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS 28 Gauge 3/4 oz 2 3/4” 7.5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition Z28-75UP 26% Off is a game-changer for upland bird hunters using 28 gauge shotguns. While the price is higher than conventional ammunition, the superior lethality, tighter patterns, and extended range justify the investment for serious hunters. It provides a clear performance advantage, resulting in more ethical harvests and fewer wounded birds.
The value proposition is strong, especially for those who demand the best performance from their equipment. The benefits greatly outweigh the cost, in my opinion.
I would highly recommend the Apex Ammunition Upland Bird Z-Series TSS to any upland bird hunter looking to maximize their effectiveness in the field. If you’re tired of crippled birds and want to experience the confidence of clean kills at longer distances, give this ammunition a try. Invest in your hunt, and you won’t be disappointed!