First Impressions of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off promises a consistent and tight pattern, crucial for ethical and effective waterfowl hunting. Knowing the challenges of steel shot and its pattern density, I was eager to see if Apex Ammunition could deliver on this promise with their S3 Super Shot technology.
My pursuit of the perfect waterfowl load began years ago, frustrated by inconsistent patterns and crippling shots that extended hunts unnecessarily. I’ve tested countless brands, hoping to find a load that delivers both the necessary power and the consistent patterns needed for clean kills.
Upon receiving the Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the packaging. The shells looked pristine and uniform, a stark contrast to some of the cheaper, dented loads I’ve used in the past. Compared to Winchester Blind Side or Federal Black Cloud, the Apex Ammunition shells appeared to be meticulously crafted. I chose Apex Ammunition because of its reputation for consistent pellet uniformity and tight patterns, hoping to improve my success rate in the duck blind.
I was genuinely excited to test these shells, hoping they would live up to the hype and provide the consistent performance I needed. The promise of “perfect pellet uniformity” definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel during an early teal season hunt on a heavily pressured public marsh. The conditions were typical for early fall: warm, humid, and with a slight breeze.
The shells cycled flawlessly through my Benelli Super Black Eagle, and the recoil was surprisingly manageable for a 3″ steel load. My initial shots at decoying teal were devastating, with clean kills at distances of 30-40 yards, far exceeding the performance of the cheaper steel loads I had been using.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using several boxes of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel throughout the entire waterfowl season, I can confidently say that they hold up exceptionally well. The shells consistently delivered tight, even patterns, even in cold and wet conditions.
There were no signs of excessive wear and tear on my shotgun, and the shells themselves remained clean and undamaged even after being stored in my blind bag for extended periods. Compared to my previous experience with some budget steel loads that would sometimes swell and become difficult to chamber, the Apex Ammunition shells are a significant upgrade in terms of reliability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off
Specifications
Manufacturer: Apex Ammunition.
Gauge: 12.
Number of Rounds: 25.
Shot Size: 4.
Shell Length: 3 inches.
Muzzle Velocity: 1450 ft/s. This velocity ensures sufficient energy for clean kills at reasonable distances.
Application: Hunting, Waterfowl.
Included Accessories: None.
Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz. This weight provides a good balance of pellet count and energy.
Shot Material: Steel.
Primer Style: Centerfire.
Cartridge Case Material: Plastic.
Lead Free: Yes.
The specifications matter because they directly impact the effectiveness of the load for waterfowl hunting. The 3″ shell provides increased payload, while the 1450 ft/s muzzle velocity ensures sufficient energy transfer at typical waterfowl hunting ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its consistent patterns result in cleaner kills and fewer crippled birds.
The only improvement I could suggest would be offering a wider variety of shot sizes to accommodate different waterfowl species and hunting conditions. It significantly exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with consistent crimping and smooth shell casings that cycle reliably in my semi-automatic shotgun. The shells are comfortable to handle, even in cold weather.
There is no learning curve – the shells are ready to use straight out of the box. The simple design is effective and functional.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the shells are incredibly durable and will likely last for many years if stored properly. Regular cleaning of your shotgun is always recommended after using any ammunition, but the Apex Ammunition shells do not seem to produce excessive fouling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel itself does not have any accessories or customization options. However, its performance can be further enhanced by using aftermarket chokes designed for steel shot.
It is compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 3″ shells and designed to shoot steel shot, and works well with a variety of choke tubes.
Pros and Cons of Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off
Pros
- Consistently tight and uniform patterns lead to cleaner kills and reduced crippling.
- Reliable cycling in semi-automatic shotguns.
- Manageable recoil for a 3″ steel load.
- High-quality components and construction.
- Noticeable improvement in performance compared to standard steel loads.
Cons
- Price point is higher than standard steel loads.
- Limited shot size options.
Who Should Buy Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off?
Perfect for: Serious waterfowl hunters who demand the best possible performance and are willing to invest in premium ammunition. Also, ethical hunters who prioritize clean kills.
Who should skip this product? Hunters on a tight budget or those who only occasionally hunt waterfowl might find cheaper alternatives sufficient.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality choke tube specifically designed for steel shot can further enhance the performance of the Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel.
Conclusion on Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off
The Apex Ammunition Waterfowl S3 Steel 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 3” 4 Shot Shotgun Ammunition S312-4 48% Off delivers on its promise of consistent and tight patterns, making it a top-tier choice for serious waterfowl hunters. While the price is higher than standard steel loads, the improved performance and ethical advantage of cleaner kills make it a worthwhile investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this ammunition to any waterfowl hunter seeking the best possible performance. If you’re tired of crippling birds and want to increase your success in the field, give Apex Ammunition a try – you won’t be disappointed.