A perforating apparatus (100) includes a plurality of shaped charges (102) each having a case, an initiation end and a discharge end. A detonating cord (116) is operably associated with the initiation ends of the shaped charges (102). An energy absorbing charge holder (104) has a detonating cord receiving area to receive the detonating cord therein (116). The energy absorbing charge holder (104) also has a plurality of charge receiving locations that closely receive the shaped charges (102) therein such that upon detonation of the shaped charges (102), energy is transferred from the cases of the shaped charges (102) to the energy absorbing charge holder (104), thereby reducing fragmentation of the cases.