As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer with over a decade spent testing gear in the field, I’ve seen a lot of shotgun ammunition come and go. But the recent surge in popularity of apex ammo predator, particularly their apex tungsten steel blend offerings, has been hard to ignore. Specifically, the demand for tss shotgun shells duck and tss duck loads has skyrocketed, and for good reason. This article will provide a comprehensive review of Apex’s tungsten and steel options, covering everything from tungsten shot size for ducks to a comparison with other leading brands like Federal and Black Cloud. We’ll also look at the performance of their apex s3 steel line and help you determine if these loads are right for your next waterfowl hunt.
Understanding Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) and Steel Shot
Before diving into Apex specifically, let’s quickly recap why hunters are switching to tss waterfowl ammo. Traditional lead shot was banned for waterfowl hunting in the US in 1991 due to its toxicity to birds (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). Steel shot became the initial replacement, but it has limitations. Steel is significantly less dense than lead, meaning you need more of it to achieve the same pattern density and effective range. This often results in larger shot sizes and reduced effective range.
Tungsten shot for ducks, and specifically Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), solves this problem. TSS is nearly twice as dense as steel, allowing for smaller shot sizes with comparable or even superior performance to larger steel loads. This translates to tighter patterns, longer effective range, and more ethical kills. The apex tungsten waterfowl loads leverage this density to deliver exceptional performance.
The Benefits of Apex's Tungsten Steel Blend
Apex doesn’t just offer pure TSS; they’ve pioneered a tungsten steel blend that aims to bridge the gap between cost and performance. By combining tungsten with steel, they create a load that’s more affordable than 100% TSS while still offering a significant performance boost over traditional steel. This blend is particularly appealing for hunters who want the advantages of tungsten without the premium price tag. The apex tss blend is a smart compromise for many.
Apex Ammo Predator: A Detailed Review
I’ve spent several seasons testing various apex waterfowl ammo review samples, focusing on both their TSS and S3 steel offerings. Here’s a breakdown of my findings:
Apex TSS Waterfowl Loads – Performance in the Field
I tested the 12 gauge tss waterfowl loads in 3.5" and 3" shells, focusing on both ducks and geese. The patterns were consistently impressive, even at extended ranges. I found that a tss shot size for geese of #4 or #5 provided excellent penetration and crippling rates, while a tss shot size for ducks of #6 or #7 delivered devastating patterns on passing birds. The migra shotgun shells, which also utilize TSS, are a competitor, but Apex’s consistency stood out.
Key Observations:
- Pattern Density: Exceptional, even with tighter chokes.
- Effective Range: Noticeably longer than comparable steel loads.
- Penetration: Excellent, even on larger ducks and geese.
- Recoil: While TSS is dense, Apex’s loads felt manageable, especially in a well-fitted shotgun.
Apex S3 Steel: A Competitive Steel Option
Apex’s apex s3 steel line is designed to compete with other premium steel loads. I tested the apex ammunition s3 steel in both 12 and 20 gauge, and the results were encouraging. The apex s3 steel review consistently highlighted its tighter patterns compared to standard steel loads. The apex s3 steel 20 gauge performed particularly well in my 20-gauge shotgun, delivering consistent patterns at reasonable distances.
Key Observations:
- Pattern Density: Tighter than most standard steel loads.
- Range: Good for typical duck hunting scenarios.
- Cost: More affordable than TSS, making it a good option for high-volume shooting.
Comparing Apex to the Competition: Federal and Black Cloud
How does Apex stack up against established brands like Federal and Black Cloud? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Apex TSS | Federal TSS | Black Cloud TSS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pattern Density | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good |
| Effective Range | Longest | Long | Long |
| Price | Mid-Range | Premium | Premium |
| Steel Option | Apex S3 Steel | Federal Steel | Black Cloud Steel |
Federal tss waterfowl loads are known for their quality, but they often come with a higher price tag. Black cloud tss is another popular choice, offering excellent performance, but again, at a premium cost. Apex strikes a good balance between performance and affordability.
Choosing the Right Shot Size for Your Hunt
Selecting the appropriate tungsten shot size for ducks and geese is crucial for success. Here’s a general guideline:
- Ducks (Mallards, Pintails, Gadwalls): #6 or #7 TSS
- Ducks (Teal, Wigeon): #7.5 or #8 TSS
- Geese (Canada Geese): #4 or #5 TSS
- Geese (Snow Geese): #5 or #6 TSS
Remember that these are just guidelines. Factors like hunting pressure, bird size, and shooting distance can influence your choice. Always check local regulations regarding shot size restrictions (National Park Service).
Safety and Ethical Considerations
Regardless of the ammunition you choose, safety should always be your top priority. Follow all firearm safety rules and practice responsible hunting ethics. Proper choke selection is also critical when using TSS. Consult your shotgun’s manual and consider using a dedicated TSS choke for optimal performance. Remember to adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace principles during your hunt.
Apex Steel Shot: A Viable Alternative?
While Apex is gaining recognition for its tungsten offerings, their apex steel shot line shouldn’t be overlooked. The S3 steel provides a noticeable improvement in pattern density compared to traditional steel loads, making it a viable option for hunters on a budget or in areas where tungsten is prohibited. I found the apex steel shot to be particularly effective when hunting over decoys at closer ranges.
Final Thoughts on Apex Ammo Predator
In conclusion, apex ammo predator is a serious contender in the waterfowl ammunition market. Their tss duck shells and tungsten duck loads deliver exceptional performance, and their apex tungsten steel blend offers a compelling value proposition. Whether you’re a seasoned waterfowl hunter or just starting out, I highly recommend giving Apex ammunition a try. I believe you’ll be impressed with the results. For more information on shotgun selection, check out our guide to selecting the right shotgun for waterfowl. And remember to always prioritize safety and ethical hunting practices.
Disclaimer: I have no financial relationship with Apex Ammunition. This review is based on my independent testing and experience.