Issues with Apex Turkey Ninja's and Stevens 301 .410

[Spark352]

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Have anyone noticed any issues with the .410 factory ammo being too long or thick in the rim? Today at the range I had 2 out of a box of 10 Apex Turkey Ninja's #9.5 7/8oz loads that would not allow me to fully close the action. The action would seem closed but if you put pressure on it, the action would pop open. I only caught this because then I laid the weapon on my sand back it popped open. Not an easy feeling when you have an explosion going off next to your face. I'm going to have to really check while loading going forward. Haven't noticed a problem with Federal TSS loads.

Is this common in these guns? Does it go away over time? Did I get a bad batch from Apex? I've only got about 20rds through the gun currently.

Thanks

[smh]

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I had a similar problem with this shell in an 870 .410 and like you my problem was with 1 or 2 out of 4 shells. I forcefully closed the action by pushing harder on the slide. I’m not sure if it is the shell (which I suspect) or a brand new stiff action, but it does close much easier with “standard” 2-1/2” and 3” shells. I suggest you call Apex and please keep the forum posted in any updates.

P.S. I suspect the shotgun will not fire if the bolt is not locked.

[Spark352]

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Just got off the phone with Apex. They were super helpful with fielding any questions I had. Said they haven't heard reports of this before. Sounds like my 301 is probably a little out of spec and will hopefully settle in with a few more shells through it as parts marry together. It's just odd that the Federal and other 8 Apex had no issues. Wish I had a set of calipers to measure OAL and rim thickness. Hoping this is just a fluke with my weapon and those two shells. Not going to stop me from purchasing more Apex ammo down the road though.

[cutt down]

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I have a similar issue with a Mossberg SA-28. Seems the bore is on the smaller end of the tolerance. When a shell is on the upper end & the bore is on the smaller end there can be an issue.