Description
The Apex Dove Stratified 12 GA 7-8 Lead is a purpose-built dove load that layers two shot sizes in one shell: #7 and #8 high-antimony lead in a 2-3/4 inch, 1-1/8 ounce payload rated at 1,300 fps. Apex designed the Stratified line for the reality of the dove field, where one bird commits at 15 yards and the next slides past at 40. Each box holds 25 rounds.
How the Apex Dove Stratified 12 GA 7-8 Lead Stratified Payload Works
Most dove hunting shells use a single shot size, which forces a trade-off. Smaller #8 shot fills the pattern for close birds, while larger #7 or #7-1/2 shot carries more energy for longer passes. The Apex layered shot payload combines both, aiming for more pellets on target up close and better retained energy as distance grows.
Apex calls its lead L3, a high-antimony lead shot. Antimony hardens lead, so the pellets stay rounder when the shell fires and as they travel through the barrel and choke. Rounder pellets fly truer, which generally means fewer flyers and more even patterns.
The 2-3/4 inch hull fits virtually every 12 gauge shotgun, and the 1-1/8 ounce payload at 1,300 fps is a familiar, manageable recipe that most shooters can handle through a long afternoon of shooting. The shells are assembled in the USA.
Choosing the Apex Dove Stratified 12 GA 7-8 Lead for Your Hunt
A 12 gauge dove load with 1-1/8 ounces is a sweet spot for many hunters. It carries enough pellets for consistent patterns without the heavier recoil of 1-1/4 ounce loads. If you shoot a lot of birds at longer range, Apex also offers a heavier 1-1/4 ounce version; for mostly close birds over a water hole or sunflower field, this lighter load is usually the better fit.
Choke choice depends on how the birds are working. Improved cylinder or light modified is a good starting point for decoying birds and field edges, while modified helps on higher passing shots. Patterning at 25 and 35 yards will show how the stratified payload performs in your gun.
One caution: this is a lead load. Some public lands, wildlife management areas and refuges require non-toxic shot for dove, so check your state regulations and the specific rules for the field you hunt before loading lead.
Apex Dove Stratified 12 GA 7-8 Lead Specifications
- Brand: Apex Ammunition
- Line: Dove Stratified L3 Lead
- Part Number: ED12-78
- Gauge: 12 GA
- Shell Length: 2-3/4 inch
- Payload: 1-1/8 oz
- Shot: layered #7 and #8 high-antimony lead
- Velocity: 1,300 fps (manufacturer rating)
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Assembled in the USA
- UPC: 850075311262
Why Dove Hunters Choose the Apex Dove Stratified 12 GA 7-8 Lead
Apex built this line on hunter feedback, and the concept is simple: one shell that handles the full range of dove shots without switching loads between passes. For hunters who shoot a lot of shells in a season, a consistent load that patterns well can make a real difference in birds per box.
There are trade-offs. Premium layered loads cost more than promotional dove and quail shells, and on very close birds a pure #8 load may pattern just as well for less money. Heavier payloads and higher velocity also add recoil, but this 1-1/8 ounce, 1,300 fps recipe stays comfortable for most shooters.
Browse the MAG5 Firearms ammunition selection for more upland and dove shells, and see Apex Ammunition for full load details.
Who it is for: dove hunters with a 12 gauge who want dense, versatile patterns across mixed ranges from a single box. Follow all federal, state and local hunting regulations, including non-toxic shot rules where they apply, and store the Apex Dove Stratified 12 GA 7-8 Lead in a cool, dry place.
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