Apex
Apex Ammunition: In Depth
Founded in 2017, Apex Ammunition has established itself as an industry leader in high-performance shotshell ammunition. Based in Columbus, Mississippi, Apex has cultivated a reputation for innovation, precision engineering, and exceptional quality in the ammunition industry, serving serious hunters, competition shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts across the country.
Apex Ammunition is renowned for its premium line of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) shotshells, designed to deliver superior performance for waterfowl, turkey, and upland game hunting. Their product lines encompass everything from turkey-specific loads to waterfowl, upland, and predator hunting ammunition. Each shell is meticulously crafted with attention to detail to deliver unparalleled pattern density, energy transfer, and terminal performance. Apex's dedication to quality is reflected in their stringent testing protocols and continuous product refinement, ensuring every shell performs consistently under the most demanding hunting conditions.
A standout achievement in Apex's history is the development of their proprietary loading techniques for Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), which has a density of 18 g/cc compared to 11 g/cc for lead and 10 g/cc for bismuth. This ultra-dense material dramatically improves the performance characteristics of shotshells, providing tighter patterns and deeper penetration for more ethical harvests at extended ranges.
Beyond their technological innovations, Apex also offers specialized custom-loaded ammunition, which is sought after by those who demand the highest levels of performance from their shotguns. Their loading team is recognized for their expertise and precision craftsmanship, enabling hunters to achieve performance specifications tailored to their individual firearms and hunting scenarios.
For those who prioritize cutting-edge ballistics, exceptional quality, and superior hunting performance, Apex stands as the definitive choice. With over seven years of experience, Apex continues to lead the premium shotshell ammunition industry, delivering reliable and innovative products that are trusted by discerning hunters and shooters across the globe. Whether you are pursuing spring gobblers, targeting waterfowl, or hunting upland birds, Apex delivers uncompromising quality and performance.
History and Development
Apex Ammunition has been a transformative force in the premium shotshell industry since its founding in 2017. The company was established by a team of passionate hunters and shooting enthusiasts, whose expertise in ballistics and commitment to excellence laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most respected ammunition manufacturers in the industry.
Apex began its journey during the modern revolution in non-toxic shot technology. The founding team's guiding principle was straightforward yet powerful: "Maximum performance without compromise." This emphasis on performance and quality became the driving philosophy behind the brand. The company initially specialized in hand-loaded Tungsten Super Shot shells for turkey hunting that quickly gained recognition for their exceptional pattern density and knockdown power.
In its early years, Apex operated as a small-batch custom loading operation, but its unwavering commitment to innovation led to significant expansion. A pivotal moment came in 2019 when Apex introduced its first commercial line of TSS turkey loads, which featured meticulously selected components and proprietary wad designs that dramatically improved pattern performance without compromising reliability. Another critical development was the introduction of blended shot loads, which combined different TSS pellet sizes to optimize both pattern density and energy delivery.
Ownership of Apex has remained consistent, with the founding team guiding the company through steady growth and market expansion. Under their leadership, Apex has expanded its operations and increased its production capacity. The company continues to be privately owned, with a dedicated management team that maintains the founding principles of quality and innovation.
Apex's influence extends beyond commercial success; it has become a recognized innovator in the hunting community and has partnered with numerous conservation organizations. The company's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its continuous development of new products. For example, Apex was among the first to market with specialized subsonic TSS loads for suppressed shotguns, a growing segment in the hunting market.
Throughout its history, Apex has remained at the cutting edge of shotshell technology. The company introduced the "Mossy Oak® Shadow Grass Habitat®" waterfowl series, specifically designed to maximize performance in modern waterfowling scenarios, providing dramatically improved results over traditional steel shot loads. This product line exemplifies Apex's ongoing commitment to providing hunters with the most advanced ammunition possible.
Today, Apex remains a leader in the premium shotshell industry, recognized for its high-quality products, innovative approach, and dedication to the hunting community. The company's products are highly regarded by professional guides, serious hunters, and competition shooters alike, cementing its position as a rising star in the global ammunition market.
Complete Timeline of Apex Ammunition's Development:
Apex Ammunition Products Overview
Apex Ammunition is a premier manufacturer of high-performance shotshell ammunition, known for its innovative use of Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) technology. They offer a wide range of specialized loads tailored for specific hunting applications, from turkey and waterfowl to upland game and predators. Here's a detailed look at each of their specialized product lines:
1. Apex Turkey Series
Use Case: This flagship line is specifically designed for serious turkey hunters seeking maximum pattern density and lethality at extended ranges. It is favored by hunters for its ability to consistently achieve clean, ethical harvests.
Unique Features:
- Features ultra-dense Tungsten Super Shot (18 g/cc) in sizes #7, #8, #9, and #10
- Custom blended loads combine different shot sizes for optimal pattern density and penetration
- Proprietary buffer and wad system maximize pattern consistency
- Available in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge and .410 bore options
2. Apex Waterfowl Series
Use Case: Developed for dedicated waterfowl hunters, this ammunition is optimized for reliable and effective performance in challenging marsh, field, and open water conditions.
Unique Features:
- Utilizes Tungsten Super Shot for superior density and downrange energy retention
- Specialized wad design for consistent patterns from various choke constrictions
- Available in TSS/#BB Blend, TSS/#2 Blend, and straight TSS options
- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Habitat® co-branded packaging
3. Apex Upland Game Series
Use Case: This line is engineered for upland bird hunters who demand superior performance on pheasant, quail, grouse, and other upland species without the excessive recoil of traditional magnum loads.
Unique Features:
- Lower payload weights of TSS deliver equivalent or superior performance to lead
- Reduced recoil formulations for comfortable all-day hunting
- Optimized for 20 and 28 gauge upland guns
- Extended effective range compared to traditional upland loads
4. Apex Predator Series
Use Case: Specifically crafted for predator hunters targeting coyotes, foxes, and similar species where tight patterns and maximum hitting power are essential for clean, ethical harvests.
Unique Features:
- Heavy TSS payloads for maximum terminal performance
- Specialized choke recommendations for optimal pattern density at predator hunting distances
- Superior penetration for quick, humane harvests
- Effective at ranges beyond conventional predator loads
5. Apex Subsonic Series
Use Case: Ideal for hunters using suppressors or seeking reduced noise signature while maintaining lethal performance on game.
Unique Features:
- Engineered to maintain velocities below 1,100 fps
- Specialized powder blends for consistent subsonic performance
- TSS shot maintains lethality despite lower velocities
- Reduces overall hunting sound signature while maximizing effectiveness
6. Apex Custom Blend Series
Use Case: Designed for hunters seeking the ultimate in customized shotshell performance for specific hunting scenarios and shotgun configurations.
Unique Features:
- Features proprietary mixed shot size technology
- Combines TSS with other premium non-toxic shot materials
- Customized loads for specific hunting applications
- Available in limited quantities with premium packaging
7. Apex Competition Series
Use Case: Tailored for competitive shooting sports such as sporting clays, trap, and skeet, providing consistent patterns essential for competition success.
Unique Features:
- Manufactured to exacting specifications for shot-to-shot consistency
- Premium components for reliable cycling in semi-automatic shotguns
- Optimized velocity and payload weight for reduced recoil and improved follow-up shots
- Available in standard and custom load configurations
Each of Apex's product lines is engineered with specific hunting scenarios in mind, making them highly specialized for their intended applications. Whether you are pursuing spring gobblers, targeting waterfowl in flooded timber, hunting upland birds in wide-open prairies, or calling predators, Apex offers ammunition choices that promise superior performance and ethical harvesting capability.
Apex Ammunition Awards and Recognitions
Apex Ammunition has received numerous awards for their innovative shotshell products and TSS technology over the years.
| Award | Product | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Life Editor's Choice | Turkey TSS #9 Shotshells | 2023 |
| Field & Stream Best Hunting Ammunition | TSS Waterfowl Series | 2022 |
| Game & Fish Readers' Choice | Turkey Hunting Ammunition | 2021 |
| SHOT Show Best New Ammunition | 28 Gauge TSS Turkey Loads | 2020 |
| Petersen's Hunting Editor's Pick | Predator Series TSS/Bismuth Blend | 2019 |
Where is Apex Ammunition Made?
Apex Ammunition is manufactured in Columbus, Mississippi, USA. This location serves as the headquarters for Apex's operations, where they have been producing high-performance shotshell ammunition since the company was founded in 2017.
The Columbus facility is state-of-the-art and meticulously organized, focusing on precision manufacturing and quality control. Here, Apex produces all of its well-known lines, including the Turkey Series, Waterfowl Series, and Upland Game Series, among others. Each product line is engineered for specific hunting applications, from spring turkey hunting to late-season waterfowl and upland bird hunting.
The manufacturing complex in Columbus is not only a significant local employer, with dedicated skilled technicians and ballistics experts, but it also represents American craftsmanship in the premium ammunition industry across the United States. Apex's commitment to quality and precision has established it as a premier brand in the high-performance shotshell sector.
Each year, the Columbus facility produces thousands of shotshells, utilizing precise loading techniques, proprietary component combinations, and rigorous quality control measures to ensure that each shell meets the exacting standards expected by its customers worldwide. This dedication to excellence is what maintains Apex's position at the forefront of the premium shotshell industry.
More Apex Ammunition Resources:
- Apex Ammunition's Official Website
- Apex Ammunition on LinkedIn
- Apex Ammunition on Facebook
- Apex Ammunition on Instagram
- Apex Ammunition on YouTube
- Apex Ammunition on Twitter
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Apex Ammunition
1. What is Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) and how does it differ from lead or steel shot?
Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) is an extremely dense material with a density of approximately 18 g/cc, compared to 11 g/cc for lead and 7.8 g/cc for steel. This higher density provides several significant advantages: it retains velocity and energy better at longer distances, penetrates deeper on impact, and allows for smaller pellet sizes that create denser patterns. For example, a #9 TSS pellet carries the same energy as a much larger #5 lead pellet but allows for many more pellets in the same payload weight, resulting in denser patterns and more hitting power at extended ranges.
2. Why are Apex Ammunition shells more expensive than conventional shotshells?
Apex Ammunition commands a premium price due to several factors: the raw materials cost (tungsten is significantly more expensive than lead or steel), the meticulous hand-loading process that ensures consistency, the proprietary wad designs and loading techniques, and the extensive quality control measures implemented during production. Additionally, TSS shells are typically loaded with premium components throughout. However, many hunters find the performance advantages worth the investment, as TSS loads often extend effective range, improve pattern density, and increase lethality, potentially requiring fewer shells per hunting season while providing more ethical harvests.
3. What choke recommendations does Apex have for their different ammunition types?
For turkey hunting with Apex TSS loads, a more open choke is often recommended than what might be used with lead—typically improved modified, modified, or at most a specialized turkey choke with less constriction than traditional full chokes. For waterfowl, improved cylinder or modified chokes generally perform well with TSS loads. For upland hunting, improved cylinder is often ideal. Apex provides specific choke recommendations for each product line on their packaging and website. The company also offers patterning services and can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific shotgun and hunting scenario.
4. Are Apex TSS shells safe for all shotguns, including older models?
Apex TSS shells are generally safe for modern shotguns in good condition. However, they should be used with caution in older firearms, particularly those with fixed full chokes or damascus barrels. The good news is that TSS loads typically operate at standard or even lower pressures than traditional magnum loads, despite their superior performance. This is because the increased density of TSS allows for effective performance with less powder. For vintage or heirloom shotguns, Apex recommends consulting with a qualified gunsmith before using any premium ammunition. Additionally, Apex offers lower-pressure options specifically designed for sub-gauge firearms or older guns.
5. What is the effective range of Apex TSS turkey loads?
Apex TSS turkey loads significantly extend the effective range compared to traditional lead loads. With proper choke selection and good shooting technique, many hunters report consistent, ethical harvests at 50-60 yards, with some loads performing well even beyond that range. However, Apex emphasizes responsible hunting and encourages taking shots at ranges where you can ensure clean, ethical kills. The extended effective range should be viewed as providing a wider margin for error in estimating distances and ensuring adequate pattern density for an ethical harvest, rather than as an invitation to take longer shots than necessary. Apex recommends pattern testing your specific gun/choke/load combination at various distances to determine your personal effective range.
6. What is the shelf life of Apex Ammunition?
When stored properly in a cool, dry environment, Apex Ammunition has an excellent shelf life of many years. The premium components used in Apex shells, including quality powders, primers, and wads, are selected for consistency and longevity. Tungsten Super Shot itself is non-reactive and stable, unlike some other shot materials that may deteriorate over time. Apex recommends storing ammunition in original factory packaging or purpose-designed ammunition containers with desiccant packets in low-humidity environments for maximum shelf life. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and exposure to oils, solvents, or high humidity, which can affect the performance of any ammunition.
7. Does Apex offer custom loading services for unique hunting requirements?
Yes, Apex does offer custom loading services for hunters with specific requirements or preferences. This service allows hunters to specify gauge, shell length, shot size or blend, payload weight, and velocity to meet their exact needs. Custom services are particularly popular for sub-gauge enthusiasts (28 gauge and .410 bore), hunters using unique firearms, and those preparing for specific hunting scenarios. The custom loading program typically has minimum order requirements and longer lead times than standard production ammunition. Interested customers should contact Apex directly through their website for current options, pricing, and availability of custom loading services.
8. How do Apex blended loads work and why would I choose them over straight TSS?
Apex blended loads combine multiple shot sizes in a single shell to optimize both pattern density and penetration. For example, a turkey load might combine smaller #9 TSS pellets for pattern density with larger #7 TSS pellets for deeper penetration. Similarly, waterfowl blends might combine TSS with bismuth or steel. The benefits of blended loads include more forgiving patterns at various distances, improved lethality across a spectrum of game sizes, and often a more cost-effective option than straight TSS while still delivering superior performance compared to traditional loads. Hunters typically choose blended loads when versatility is important or when hunting scenarios might involve varying shot distances or different sizes of game within the same hunt.
9. Are Apex TSS loads available in sub-gauge options?
Yes, Apex offers an extensive selection of sub-gauge options, including 20 gauge, 28 gauge, and .410 bore. These smaller gauge options have become particularly popular as hunters discover that the performance advantages of TSS make sub-gauge shotguns viable for hunting scenarios that traditionally required 12 gauge firearms. The 28 gauge and .410 TSS loads from Apex have developed a strong following among turkey hunters looking for reduced recoil without sacrificing performance. The company continues to expand their sub-gauge offerings across their product lines, including turkey, waterfowl, and upland game loads, making them one of the leading manufacturers for premium sub-gauge ammunition.
10. How does Apex ensure quality control for their ammunition?
Apex Ammunition implements a rigorous multi-stage quality control process to ensure consistency and performance. Each production run begins with careful component selection, including premium hulls, wads, primers, and precisely sized TSS pellets. During loading, shells are weighed at multiple stages to verify powder and shot charges. Completed shells undergo visual inspection for proper crimp formation and dimensional consistency. Random samples from each production lot are pattern-tested using standardized methods to verify performance. The company maintains detailed records of each production lot, allowing for traceability and continuous improvement. This meticulous attention to quality control explains why many serious hunters trust Apex for their most important hunting situations.
For more information about Apex Ammunition products or to find answers to additional questions, please visit their official website or contact their customer service team directly. Apex regularly updates their FAQ section to address common customer inquiries and provide the most current information about their products and services.