Rio's BlueSteel Royal 20 Gauge ammunition is a high-performance option for waterfowl hunters. This 3-inch shell delivers a 1 oz payload of #2 steel shot at a blazing 1400 fps muzzle velocity. Designed specifically for the challenges of steel shot, these shells feature specially formulated powders and cartridge wads to ensure reliable performance. The 20 gauge option offers reduced recoil compared to 12 gauge, making it an excellent choice for youth, women, and hunters who prefer a lighter firearm, without compromising on effectiveness for duck and goose hunting at appropriate ranges.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Rio Ammunition |
| Product Line | Royal BlueSteel MGN |
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 3" |
| Shot Size | #2 |
| Shot Weight | 1 oz |
| Shot Material | Steel |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1400 fps |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Boxes Per Case | 10 |
| Application | Hunting |
Key Features:
The Rio BlueSteel Royal 20 Gauge 3" 1 oz #2 Shot offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice for hunting applications. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| Gauge | 20 Gauge Ideal for hunters seeking reduced recoil without compromising effectiveness |
| Shell Length | 3" Magnum shell length for increased payload and power |
| Shot Size | #2 Effective for medium to large waterfowl |
| Shot Weight | 1 oz Balanced payload for 20 gauge performance |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1400 fps High velocity for flat trajectory and increased energy transfer |
| Shot Material | Steel Non-toxic shot suitable for waterfowl hunting regulations |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Waterfowl Hunting: Specifically designed for hunting ducks and geese, providing excellent performance at typical waterfowl hunting ranges.
- Youth and Smaller-Framed Hunters: 20 gauge option is ideal for youth, women, and smaller-framed hunters who prefer less recoil.
- Wetland Conservation: Non-toxic steel shot complies with regulations for hunting in wetland areas.
- Upland Game: Can be used for larger upland game birds where steel shot is required or preferred.
- Target Practice: Suitable for patterning and practicing with your waterfowl hunting shotgun.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- ✔ High Velocity: 1400 fps muzzle velocity provides excellent range and hitting power for waterfowl hunting.
- ✔ Effective Payload: 1 oz of #2 shot offers a good balance of pellet count and energy transfer for medium to large waterfowl.
- ✔ Versatile Shot Size: #2 shot is effective and highly versatile for both ducks and geese at appropriate hunting ranges.
- ✔ Non-Toxic: Steel shot complies with waterfowl hunting regulations and is environmentally friendly.
- ✔ 20 Gauge Option: Ideal for hunters who prefer lighter recoil or smaller-framed shotguns while maintaining effectiveness.
Cons
- ✘ Limited Pellet Count: 1 oz payload in 20 gauge may have fewer pellets compared to 12 gauge options, potentially affecting pattern density.
- ✘ Effective Range: May have a slightly reduced effective range compared to heavier 12 gauge loads.
- ✘ Specialized Use: Primarily designed for waterfowl hunting, may not be as versatile for other hunting applications.
- ✘ Ammunition Availability: 20 gauge waterfowl loads may be less commonly stocked than 12 gauge options in some areas.
About Rio Ammunition:
Rio Ammunition, a brand of MAXAM Outdoors, has been a leading manufacturer of shotgun shells and cartridges since 1896. Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, Rio has established itself as a global player in the ammunition industry, with a presence in over 100 countries. Renowned for its innovative approach, Rio specializes in non-toxic shotgun loads like their BlueSteel line, designed to meet environmental and regulatory standards. The company operates state-of-the-art production facilities in both Spain and Marshall, Texas, USA, where they combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to produce high-quality ammunition for hunting, sport shooting, and law enforcement applications. Rio’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in its focus on lead-free alternatives and sustainable manufacturing practices, ensuring both performance and ecological consideration across its product line.
