Introduction: The Rise of Apex Ammunition
In the dynamic premium hunting and shotgun ammunition market, Apex Ammunition has rapidly established itself as a leader in innovation, consistency, and performance. A passionate group of Mississippi hunters founded Apex Ammunition, focused on high-quality loads utilizing non-traditional and high-tech ammunition methods, including Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) and technical approaches to manufacturing. If you are looking to aim turkeys under the thick timber canopy or ducks in the wide-open waters, Apex rounds were constructed to be lethal, far-reaching, and patterned tightly.
Hunters have rapidly recognized Apex as a leader in premium ammunition, not just for its consistent performance but also for its small-batch, hand-loaded method of production that gives Apex quality control far above and beyond the mass-market commodity ammunition manufactured by larger corporations. Apex has premium ammo products, including specialty ammunition for hog, deer, birds, or whatever your firearms practice requires; Apex has emerged as one of the goto ammo companies for premium shotgun shooting experiences.
This article will cover the legacy of Apex Ammunition, popular ammunition offerings, customer reviews, specialty loads, and interesting accessories to give you a comprehensive, providing guide to one of the most respected ammunition brands in the United States.
The Origins of Apex Ammunition in Mississippi
Apex Ammunition was founded in Columbus, Mississippi, 2017 by military veterans and lifelong hunters. They aimed to produce high-quality shotgun shells that could shoot with unrivalled accuracy and terminal performance. They operated in the Deep South, where duck blinds, turkey roosts, and predator woods are second nature, and they were driven by field experience.
What started as a small, niche operation has become a national and recognizable brand. Their niche currently resides in small-batch loading, hand inspection, and ultra-premium components, especially TSS or tungsten super shot, as they go against the mass-produced, gun-marketed brands of the shotgun shell industry.
The culture of hunting, coupled with the founders’ military background, provided a perfect combination to build an ethical, reliable, and performance-driven culture.
Apex Ammunition Reviews: What Hunters Are Saying
Across online forums, retail sites, and hunting communities, Apex Ammunition reviews are overwhelmingly positive. The most praised elements include:
- Tight Patterns: Whether it’s waterfowl or turkey, users report consistently dense shot patterns at extended ranges.
- Lethality: Many reviewers highlight clean, ethical kills with fewer wounded animals—especially when using Apex’s TSS loads.
- Craftsmanship: Apex’s hand-loaded process earns praise for its attention to detail and quality control.
Sample review highlights:
- “I’ve never seen a turkey drop faster than with Apex #9 TSS. Clean and instant.”
- “These shells are expensive, but you get what you pay for—absolute top-tier performance.”
- “Patterned them at 40 yards and couldn’t believe the density. Best shells I’ve used, period.”
While the cost of Apex shells is higher than average, most users believe the results are worth every penny, especially for high-stakes hunts.
Apex Ammunition TSS: The Gold Standard for Turkey and Beyond
Apex may be most famous for its Tungsten Super Shot (TSS). Its premium material is denser and more capable of carrying energy than steel, lead, and bismuth. With a density of 18.1 g/cc, TSS allows smaller pellets to deliver more downrange energy, penetrate deeper than steel and maintain better velocity at longer distances.
Apex TSS Applications:
- Turkey Hunting: The #9 and #8 loads in .410, 20 gauge, and 12 gauge are devastating on gobblers.
- Waterfowl Loads: TSS mixed with steel (or pure TSS) allows for ethical long-range shots without crippling birds.
- Predator Loads: Specialized TSS predator shells drop coyotes and bobcats with authority.
Apex was one of the first brands to mainstream TSS for the average hunter. Today, their TSS line remains their flagship offering, renowned for its superior ballistic performance and clean kills.
Apex Ammunition Turkey Tungsten: Ethical Harvesting, Maximum Range
Turkey hunting has been transformed by Apex’s turkey tungsten loads, allowing smaller gauge shotguns to rival or exceed the performance of larger bores.
Key Advantages:
- Extended Range: Clean kills at 50–70 yards are now possible, especially with #9 TSS loads.
- Reduced Recoil: Smaller shot sizes and lower payloads maintain effectiveness while being shoulder-friendly.
- Smaller Gauges, Bigger Results: Apex has popularized the .410 and 20 gauge for turkey with TSS, perfect for youth, women, or minimalist hunters.
Each turkey load is optimized for pattern density and energy, ensuring ethical harvesting even at challenging distances.
Apex Ammunition S3 Steel: An Affordable, Lead-Free Option
For hunters who want performance without the premium TSS price tag, Apex S3 Steel offers an excellent balance. This line uses high-performance steel pellets combined with Apex’s proprietary wad system and powder blends.
Features:
- 3″ and 3.5″ loads available
- Optimized velocities for knockdown and pattern control
- Ideal for waterfowl and upland game
While steel lacks the density of TSS, Apex’s S3 line compensates with tight quality control and modern engineering. It’s a solid mid-tier choice for those needing non-toxic shot for federal land or migratory birds.
Apex Ammunition Waterfowl Loads: Clean Wings, Every Time
Waterfowl hunters have increasingly turned to Apex for their waterfowl ammunition, thanks to specialized blends of TSS and steel that cater to real-world duck and goose conditions.
Apex Waterfowl Features:
- Mixed payloads: Steel + TSS for balanced affordability and performance.
- Shot sizes from #2 to #9, with configurations for teal, mallards, divers, and geese.
- Precision-wrapped wads: Reduce shot deformation and maintain pattern consistency.
Many waterfowlers appreciate Apex’s commitment to clean, one-shot kills—even at long distances and in harsh environments like frozen marshes or flooded timber.
Apex Ammunition .410: Little Gauge, Big Impact
Perhaps no other company has elevated the reputation of the .410 bore shotgun like Apex. Using high-density TSS, even the smallest gauges can now ethically take down turkeys, ducks, and predators.
Why Apex .410 Stands Out:
- 1 oz. of #9 TSS at 1100+ fps packs incredible energy.
- Ideal for young shooters, recoil-sensitive hunters, or minimalist setups.
- Incredible pattern density, even at 40–50 yards.
What was once considered a rabbit or squirrel gun is now a legitimate turkey-slaying tool thanks to Apex’s revolutionary .410 offerings.
Apex Ammunition Predator Loads: High-Velocity, Devastating Results
Coyotes, foxes, and bobcats require ammo that’s fast, dense, and lethal. Apex’s predator shells fit the bill with TSS and heavy payloads designed for instant takedown.
Predator Load Benefits:
- Quick expansion and deep penetration for maximum damage.
- Works in standard shotgun platforms, perfect for rural property defense.
- Low pellet deformation keeps the spread controlled and lethal.
Whether you’re protecting livestock or reducing predator numbers during season, Apex gives you the upper hand with specialized loads that work in tight cover or open fields.
Is Apex Ammunition Good? The Verdict
Yes—Apex Ammunition is exceptional, particularly for hunters who value performance over price. Here’s why:
- Proven Performance: Field tests and real-world results consistently back up the brand’s effectiveness.
- Innovative Materials: Apex was one of the first to champion TSS, and they still lead in advanced shell technology.
- Hand-Loaded Craftsmanship: Each batch is made with meticulous attention to detail.
- Customer Satisfaction: High repeat purchase rates and loyal fan base.
While it may not be the most budget-friendly brand, for serious hunters, Apex represents a sound investment in successful, ethical harvests.
Apex Ammunition Shells: Craftsmanship in Every Round
Every Apex shell is hand-loaded in small batches, with careful inspection of primers, powders, wads, and shot. Their quality control process includes:
- Weight checks for shot payload
- Visual inspections for shell defects
- Pattern testing for every load series
- Powder burn rate matching to ensure consistent velocity
This attention to detail ensures that every Apex shell performs exactly as advertised—something rarely found in mass-produced ammunition.
Also Read: Caseless Ammunition: The Future of Modern Firearms
Apex Ammunition Cigar Box Packaging: A Collector’s Touch
One of the unique branding touches Apex is known for is its cigar box packaging—a nod to traditional craftsmanship and Southern charm. Select limited-edition loads and commemorative runs come packed in custom-designed wooden cigar boxes, making them:
- Collector’s items
- Great gifts for hunters
- Durable keepsakes
The cigar box is more than a gimmick—it reflects the premium, boutique ethos that defines the Apex brand. It’s small details like these that have helped the company earn a cult following.
Apex Ammunition Hat and Apparel: Represent the Brand
Apex isn’t just ammunition—it’s a lifestyle. Their merchandise, including the popular Apex Ammunition hat, is frequently spotted in duck blinds, turkey woods, and on social media.
Available Gear Includes:
- Embroidered hats and beanies
- Branded T-shirts and hoodies
- Cigar box ammo crates
- Custom shell pouches
Wearing Apex gear is a way for passionate hunters to show their appreciation for a brand that delivers performance when it matters most.
Sustainability and Ethical Commitment
Apex Ammunition is committed to ethical hunting and environmental responsibility. They:
- Promote non-toxic shot for waterfowl.
- Minimize packaging waste with recyclable boxes.
- Encourage one-shot kills to reduce animal suffering.
As more regulations push toward lead-free hunting, Apex is well-positioned to lead the charge with high-performance alternatives like TSS and precision steel.
Where to Buy Apex Ammunition
Apex products are available both online and through select dealers. Due to high demand and small-batch production, certain loads—especially .410 turkey TSS—sell out quickly during peak seasons.
Retail Sources:
- Official Apex Website
- MidwayUSA
- Rogers Sporting Goods
- Local specialty shops
Ordering early before turkey or duck season is highly recommended. Many serious hunters stock up well in advance due to seasonal availability.
Conclusion: Apex Ammunition Is Built to Hunt, Engineered to Win
Apex Ammunition has taken shotgun shells to new heights of functionality and performance. Everything they make, from high-performing TSS to affordable S3 steel and exquisite crag box packaging, stands for quality design and Southern heritage. Whether you’re hunting toms, mallards, or predators, Apex has a purpose-built load that will exceed your expectations.
Apex’s commitment to ethical harvesting, clever materials, and hand-loaded ammunition quality make them a good but one of the best ammunition companies for modern hunters who demand the results they want.
