Description
The Apex ED12-78 brings a fresh approach to dove and upland hunting with its Element Dove Stratified design. By layering #7 shot on top of #8 shot in the same shell, you're getting the penetration benefits of larger pellets combined with the denser pattern potential of smaller shot. This stratified configuration was developed to handle varying distances and angles without needing to change ammunition.
ED12-78 Standard Dove Load Specs
With 1-1/8 ounces of shot in a 2-3/4 inch hull, these shells use an 7/8 dram equivalent powder charge. This moderate loading creates manageable recoil while maintaining consistent velocity across strings of shooting. The combination works particularly well for morning and afternoon dove hunts where birds approach at different ranges and speeds.
Why Stratified Shot Works for Hunting
The innovation behind this design sits in the shell itself. The upper layer of #8 pellets creates a denser pattern for tighter shot placement early in the load's flight. Below that sits #7 shot, which carries energy better at moderate distances. For dove hunting specifically, this addresses the reality that your quarry doesn't always come at the same yardage or angle. You're not choosing between optimized close patterns or optimized extended range—you're getting a versatile load that adapts.
What You're Getting
Each box contains 25 shells loaded with lead shot. The ammunition is designed to cycle through semi-automatic shotguns and pump guns reliably. Made by Apex Ammunition, a veteran-owned company based in Mississippi that focuses on performance-driven shotgun ammunition, these shells carry the consistency standards the company built its reputation on.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches
- Shot Payload: 1-1/8 ounces
- Shot Size: #7/#8 (stratified)
- Shot Type: Lead
- Dram Equivalent: 7/8
- Rounds Per Box: 25
- Manufacturer: Apex Ammunition
- MPN: ED12-78
- UPC: 850075311262
- Product Line: Element Dove Stratified
- Rounds Per Case: 250 (10 boxes)
What’s Included
- 25 rounds of 12 gauge ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the stratified shot design different from regular dove loads?
The ED12-78 layers #8 shot above #7 shot in the same shell, combining the advantages of both. This gives you a denser initial pattern from the smaller pellets while the larger shot underneath maintains energy at moderate ranges. It's designed to handle dove at varying distances without switching ammunition.
Are these shells suitable for clay target shooting?
Yes, the 1-1/8 ounce payload and moderate dram equivalent make these practical for clay work, particularly for hunters who also shoot sports. The stratified configuration and lead shot work well for target applications, though specialized trap and skeet loads will be more purpose-built for competition.
Will the ED12-78 cycle in semi-automatic shotguns?
These shells are designed to cycle through semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns reliably. The 7/8 dram equivalent provides sufficient recoil energy for proper cycling. If you have a gas-operated semi-auto, standard loads like this typically function without issue, but checking your shotgun's manual for recommended shot weights is always a smart practice.
How do I choose between #7 and #8 shot on a regular dove load?
With the ED12-78's stratified approach, you get both in one shell. Generally, #8 creates tighter patterns ideal for close-range birds, while #7 carries more energy for moderate distances. This load eliminates the need to choose—you get the benefits of both sizes in a single shell designed specifically for dove hunting.




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