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The 12 gauge 3-inch TSS/S3 Steel Blend from Apex delivers a smart approach to waterfowl hunting by pairing two different shot types in one shell. Instead of choosing between the extended-range performance of tungsten or the budget-friendly consistency of steel, you get both working together. This duplex load puts TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) in the bottom of the shell and premium S3 steel pellets on top, creating a shot string that handles varying distances in a single box.
The tungsten pellets are what set this apart. At 18.1 grams per cubic centimeter, TSS is denser than lead, bismuth, and steel combined, meaning smaller pellets carry energy comparable to much larger lead shot. The 7.5 TSS and 4 steel combination gives you roughly 1/4 ounce of the heavy-hitters paired with a full 1 5/16 ounces of zinc-plated steel. When you fire, the steel slows down first due to size differences and patterns tight at closer ranges, then the TSS maintains energy at extended distances for clean hits on birds trying to break away.
Apex loads these shells by hand using a Tungsten-grade wad system to protect your barrel while delivering dense, consistent patterns. The zinc coating on the S3 steel pellets is the detail that matters—it fills surface voids and rounds out each pellet so they load smoothly and pattern predictably. Users report this blend patterns excellent, with enough density over decoys and enough retained energy for longer shots without needing to reach for pure TSS pricing. At 1450 feet per second, these shells move with purpose while keeping recoil manageable.
This is a working person's waterfowl round. If you're hunting situations where birds will come at different ranges—first pass at 25 yards, then a follow-up at 45—the blend covers both. The steel works fast and clean when ducks pile up, and the tungsten backs you up when birds climb. Twenty-five rounds per box makes it practical for serious hunting without the financial commitment of full TSS loads.
The duplex design stacks TSS pellets on the bottom with steel pellets on top. When fired, the steel slows down first and patterns tight for close decoy shots, while the denser tungsten pellets maintain energy for longer-distance birds trying to escape. This layered approach gives you two effective distances in one shell without having to switch loads between shots.
The TSS component gives you extended range and harder hitting power compared to steel-only loads, but at a better price point than pure TSS shells. The blend is ideal when you're not sure what distance birds will be—it covers close work and longer shots effectively without committing to the premium cost of full tungsten loads.
The number 4 steel and 7.5 TSS combination in this load works well for ducks, including larger mallards. For geese, you might want a load with larger steel pellets like 2 or BB, which Apex offers in different TSS/S3 blends. Check what species you're targeting and match the steel portion to that game, as the tungsten will handle the extended-range portion regardless.
These are standard 3-inch shells and will work in any shotgun chambered for 3-inch loads. Because they contain tungsten, they use a steel-shot type wad for proper barrel protection. Older guns that were designed before tungsten ammunition became available will still function fine, but always verify your shotgun is rated for 3-inch shells before using them.
| UPC | 850010408255 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | |
| Manufacturer Part Number | WS3-475 |
| Shipping Weight | 0.0 |
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