Rio Game Load BlueSteel shotshells are designed for environmentally conscious wetland hunters. These lead-free cartridges feature perfectly spherical steel shot, providing great knock-down power and superior range. With performance equaling that of traditional lead shot but without the associated environmental hazards, BlueSteel ammunition offers an excellent solution for duck and goose hunting. The 12 gauge, 2 3/4" shells are loaded with 1 1/8 oz of #7 shot, delivering a muzzle velocity of 1360 fps. This combination ensures effective performance on waterfowl while preserving sensitive wetland ecosystems.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Rio Ammunition |
| Model | Game Load BlueSteel |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 2 3/4" |
| Shot Size | #7 |
| Shot Weight | 1 1/8 oz |
| Shot Material | Steel |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1360 fps |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Boxes Per Case | 10 |
| UPC | 8435101628457 |
| Recommended Use | Waterfowl hunting, Upland game |
Key Features:
The Rio Game Load BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2.75" 1 1/8 oz #7 Shot offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice for waterfowl hunting and upland game. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| Gauge | 12 Gauge Standard shotgun gauge for versatile use |
| Shell Length | 2.75" Standard shell length for wide firearm compatibility |
| Shot Size | #7 Ideal for small game and upland birds |
| Shot Weight | 1 1/8 oz Provides excellent pattern density and energy |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1360 fps High velocity for improved performance |
| Shot Material | Steel Environmentally friendly alternative to lead |
| Quantity | 25 shells per box Convenient packaging for hunters |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Wetland Hunting: Specifically designed for use in sensitive wetland environments where lead shot is prohibited.
- Waterfowl Hunting: Excellent for hunting ducks and geese with its steel shot and high velocity.
- Upland Game: Suitable for hunting pheasants, grouse, and other upland birds.
- Target Practice: Can be used for clay pigeon shooting and target practice in areas requiring non-lead ammunition.
- Environmental Conservation: Supports conservation efforts by eliminating lead contamination in hunting areas.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- ✔ Environmentally Friendly: Lead-free steel shot preserves sensitive wetland environments.
- ✔ High Velocity: 1360 fps provides excellent range and hitting power for game birds.
- ✔ Perfectly Spherical Shot: Ensures consistent patterns and improved performance.
- ✔ Versatile Shot Size: #7 shot is effective for various game birds and small game hunting.
- ✔ Comparable Performance: Matches lead shot performance without environmental risks.
Cons
- ✘ Potential for Increased Wear: Steel shot causes more barrel choke wear than lead shot.
- ✘ Limited Penetration: Steel shot may have less penetration than lead at longer ranges.
- ✘ Cost: Generally more expensive than traditional lead shot loads.
- ✘ Gun Compatibility: May not be suitable for use in older shotguns not rated for steel shot.
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 a strong global presence in over 100 countries. The company operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities both in Spain and in Marshall, Texas, where they combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to produce high-quality ammunition for the U.S. market. Known for its commitment to environmental stewardship, Rio developed the BlueSteel line of lead-free shotshells to help preserve sensitive wetland environments. With a focus on innovation and performance, Rio continues to produce products that meet the evolving needs of hunters and sport shooters, while ensuring strict quality control standards for reliability and consistency in every round.
