Rio's Royal BlueSteel Magnum 12 Gauge ammunition is the ultimate choice for waterfowl hunters demanding superior performance in wetland environments. These 3-inch shells are loaded with 1 3/8 oz of #2 steel shot, propelled at a high velocity of 1300 fps. Engineered for long-distance shooting, this lead-free ammunition delivers exceptional knock-down power and energy transfer for effectively harvesting ducks and geese. The proprietary perfectly spherical steel shot ensures consistent patterns and improved aerodynamics. With Rio's commitment to quality and performance, these shells provide the reliability and stopping power needed when opportunities are scarce and distances are challenging.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Rio Ammunition |
| Model | Royal BlueSteel Magnum |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3" |
| Shot Size | #2 |
| Shot Weight | 1 3/8 oz |
| Shot Material | Steel |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1300 fps |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Boxes Per Case | 10 |
| Application | Waterfowl hunting |
| Features | Lead-free, High velocity, Magnum load |
Key Features:
The Rio Royal BlueSteel Magnum 12 Gauge 3" 1 3/8 oz #2 Shot offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice hunting applications. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| Gauge | 12 Gauge Standard shotgun gauge for versatile use |
| Shell Length | 3" Magnum shell length for increased payload and power |
| Shot Weight | 1 3/8 oz Heavy payload for maximum effectiveness on waterfowl |
| Shot Size | #2 Ideal for medium to large waterfowl at longer ranges |
| Velocity | 1300 fps High velocity for flat trajectory and increased energy transfer |
| Lead-Free | Yes Environmentally friendly and legal for use in wetland areas |
| Quantity | 25 shells per box, 10 boxes per case Bulk packaging for extended hunting trips or range sessions |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Waterfowl Hunting: Specifically designed for hunting ducks and geese in wetland areas where lead-free ammunition is required.
- Long-Range Shooting: High velocity and heavy payload make it effective for longer shots on waterfowl.
- Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Lead-free composition allows for use in areas where traditional lead shot is prohibited.
- Large Bird Hunting: The #2 shot size is suitable for larger waterfowl species.
- Competitive Shooting: Can be used in certain competitive shooting disciplines that allow for magnum loads and steel shot.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- ✔ High Velocity: 1300 fps provides excellent range and hitting power for waterfowl hunting.
- ✔ Heavy Payload: 1 3/8 oz of shot offers increased pellet count and energy transfer.
- ✔ Effective Shot Size: #2 shot is ideal for larger waterfowl like geese.
- ✔ Non-Toxic: Steel shot complies with wetland hunting regulations.
- ✔ Magnum Load: 3" shell length provides extended range and improved performance.
Cons
- ✘ Increased Recoil: The high velocity and heavy payload can result in significant felt recoil.
- ✘ Limited Versatility: May be overpowered for smaller waterfowl or upland birds.
- ✘ Gun Compatibility: Requires a shotgun chambered for 3" shells and rated for steel shot.
- ✘ Potential for Overkill: The heavy load may cause excessive damage to smaller game birds.
About Rio Ammunition:
Rio Ammunition, a division of MAXAM Outdoors, has been a leading manufacturer of shotgun shells and cartridges since 1896. Headquartered in Marshall, Texas, Rio Ammunition combines over a century of European expertise with American innovation to produce high-quality ammunition for hunters and sport shooters. The company is known for its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Spain and the United States, ensuring consistent quality and performance across all their product lines. Rio Ammunition is particularly recognized for its BlueSteel line of non-toxic shotshells, which offer superior performance for waterfowl hunting while being environmentally friendly. With a commitment to research and development, Rio continually introduces new products that meet the evolving needs of shooters worldwide, solidifying its position as a trusted name in the ammunition industry.
