Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
For turkey hunters running 28 gauge firearms, the Apex Turkey TSS 28 gauge 2-3/4″ shell redefines what a smaller bore can deliver. Loaded with 1-3/8 oz of #9 tungsten super shot and launched at 1040 fps, each shell delivers 477 pellets — a payload density that rivals 12 gauge lead loads in pattern retention and lethal range. Tungsten’s 18 g/cm³ density maintains velocity downrange, and the #9 shot size multiplies your margin for head and neck strikes. This is pattern engineering for the hunter who demands maximum probability on target.
Performance at a Glance
Apex loads pure tungsten super shot — no blends, no filler. The 2-3/4″ hull keeps chamber pressure compatible with field-grade pumps and break-actions, and the 1040 fps muzzle velocity balances speed with recoil control. Boxer primers and reloadable brass-plated hulls mean you can reload these cases after your season if you source the appropriate components. The non-toxic designation makes this load legal in areas with lead shot restrictions, and the 477-pellet count per shell puts more projectiles in a 10″ circle at 40 yards than most 20 gauge lead loads.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Tungsten Alloy Shot |
| Shot size | #9 |
| Shot weight | 1-3/8 oz |
| Number of pellets | 477 |
| Velocity | 1040 fps |
| Buffered | No |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Corrosive | No |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Intended use | Turkey |
| Barrel type | Smooth bore |
| Rounds per box | 5 |
| Country of origin | United States of America |
| DOT-regulated | Yes |
Apex manufactures this load in the United States, and the tungsten shot remains non-corrosive through storage. Find more 28 gauge ammunition options in our catalog if you need training loads or waterfowl-specific shot sizes.
Matching It to Your Build
This load fits hunters who’ve moved to 28 gauge for reduced carry weight or who hunt public land with lead restrictions. The 1-3/8 oz payload exceeds the shot count of most 20 gauge lead #5 loads, and the #9 tungsten pellets penetrate deeper than #4 lead at identical velocities due to higher sectional density. If you’re running a 28 gauge over-under, pump, or semi-auto with a turkey choke rated for tungsten shot, this shell will pattern tighter than steel and hit harder than bismuth. Verify your choke’s tungsten compatibility before firing — some older fixed-choke guns restrict harder-than-lead shot.
Field Use Tips
Pattern your firearm at 20, 30, and 40 yards with these shells before your hunt — tungsten’s density often shifts point of impact compared to lead loads. The 477-pellet count means you can take ethical shots at extended ranges, but confirm your choke delivers at least 100 pellets in a 10″ circle at your maximum intended distance. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users. After your season, save the hulls if you reload — Boxer primers and brass-plated construction allow for multiple reloading cycles with appropriate tungsten shot and wads.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
- Verify current federal, state, and local laws before purchasing or transporting ammunition across jurisdictional boundaries.
- This product can expose you to lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. For more information: www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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