Description
When it comes to steel shot, most people figure they're getting a compromise. Not with Apex S3 Steel. These shells use premium plated steel pellets paired with an ultra-durable one-piece wad system borrowed from Apex's famous TSS line. The result is pattern density and knockdown power that stands out compared to standard steel offerings.
What Makes S3 Steel Different
Apex engineered these shells around proven wad technology that delivers superior patterning without the scattered performance you'd get from older steel loads. The zinc-plated steel shot pellets are designed for consistency, and hunters report uniform patterns with minimal fliers. The 1-1/4 ounce payload in BB shot size gives you plenty of pellets downrange while maintaining the energy you need for clean, ethical shots on waterfowl at reasonable distances.
Performance in the Field
These 3-inch shells load out at 1450 fps, offering a good balance between velocity and recoil that works in most modern waterfowl shotguns. BB shot suits mixed waterfowl situations and larger geese without the overkill you'd get from going up to BBB. Field reports consistently mention how these patterns out of various choke combinations, meaning you're getting repeatable, reliable results rather than hunting the roulette wheel with your ammunition.
Built for Non-Toxic Seasons
With 25 rounds per box, you've got enough to pattern your gun before the season and still have plenty for opening day. These are manufactured to meet non-toxic shot requirements where steel is mandated, so you get the compliance checkbox without sacrificing the performance piece.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 Inch
- Shot Size: #BB Steel
- Shot Weight: 1-1/4 ounce
- Muzzle Velocity: 1450 FPS
- Rounds Per Box: 25 Rounds
- Manufacturer: Apex Ammunition
- Product Line: Waterfowl S3 Steel
- Wad System: One-Piece Durable Wad
- Shot Type: Zinc-Plated Steel
- MPN: S312-BB
- UPC: 859781007995
What’s Included
- 25 rounds of Apex Waterfowl S3 Steel 12GA 3in shells loaded with 1-1/4oz #BB shot
Frequently Asked Questions
What size shot should I use for ducks versus geese with the S3 Steel?
BB shot works well for mixed waterfowl situations and larger geese. For ducks and smaller to medium geese, many prefer #2 or #4 shot for tighter patterns and more pellet count. BB provides bigger individual pellets with more energy per shot, making it the choice when you're focusing on larger birds or longer-range opportunities.
How do Apex S3 Steel shells compare to standard steel waterfowl loads?
The S3 line uses premium zinc-plated steel pellets with an advanced one-piece wad system that delivers better pattern consistency than basic steel loads. The engineering is more refined, resulting in tighter patterns and more uniform performance across different choke tubes and shooting situations.
What choke should I use with these shells?
Choke selection depends on your intended distance and target species, but modified to full chokes generally work well with BB steel shot. The beauty of the S3's pattern design is it responds predictably to standard waterfowl choke tubes, so you're not locked into one specific setup.
Are these shells suitable for all modern waterfowl shotguns?
Yes, these are standard 3-inch 12-gauge shells that work in any modern 12-gauge shotgun rated for 3-inch ammunition. They generate standard recoil levels for steel loads. If you're using an older gun or specialized setup, check your owner's manual to confirm it handles 3-inch shells.




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