Description
If you spend time on the water hunting ducks or geese, you know how important shell selection is when opportunities are scarce and distances are long. Rio's Royal BlueSteel Magnum loads are purpose-built for exactly that scenario. These 3-inch shells pack a full 1.25 oz payload of #2 steel shot, sized right for both ducks and geese across a wide range of distances.
Royal BlueSteel Spherical Shot Design
What sets this load apart is Rio's attention to the details that matter in the field. The shot pellets are precisely formed and perfectly spherical, which isn't a throwaway feature when you're dealing with steel. Round pellets pattern more consistently than irregular shapes, and they retain energy better as they travel downrange. That means tighter patterns and more reliable knockdown power when your target is at the back edge of your effective range.
Engineering for Steel Shot Performance
Rio engineered this load specifically for the unique demands of non-toxic ammunition. The powders and wads were selected to work in harmony with steel shot, not just adapted from lead designs. The components are matched to deliver consistent patterns and reliable ignition even in wet, cold, and harsh conditions where waterfowl hunting often happens. You get a muzzle velocity of 1400 fps, which is the velocity you need to compensate for steel's lighter weight compared to lead and maintain energy downrange.
Field Ready from Box to Blind
These shells come in convenient boxes of 25 rounds for your hunting trips. With good patterns, reliable performance, and the velocity you need for longer shots, Royal BlueSteel Magnum rounds are the kind of ammunition that lets you focus on the hunt instead of second-guessing your gear.
Key Specifications
- Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inch
- Shot Size: #2
- Shot Type: Steel
- Shot Weight: 1.25 oz (1 1/4 oz)
- Muzzle Velocity: 1400 fps
- Rounds Per Box: 25
- UPC: 8435101623964
- Manufacturer Part Number: RBSM362
- Manufacturer: Rio Ammunition
What’s Included
- 25 shotshells per box
Frequently Asked Questions
What shotguns are compatible with Rio Royal BlueSteel 3-inch magnum shells?
These shells are designed for 12 gauge shotguns rated for 3-inch magnum loads and steel shot. Always check your firearm's markings to confirm it accepts 3-inch magnum shells before using this ammunition. Your shotgun's chamber must be properly rated for both the 3-inch length and non-toxic steel shot.
How does #2 shot size compare to other options for waterfowl?
Number 2 shot is a versatile choice that works well across different waterfowl hunting scenarios. It provides a good balance of pellet count and penetration, making it effective for both ducks and geese at reasonable distances. The larger pellets carry more energy than smaller shot sizes, which is why #2 is a popular choice when hunting geese or when you expect longer shots.
Why does this ammunition have such high velocity for a steel load?
The 1400 fps velocity is engineered to compensate for steel's lighter weight compared to traditional lead shot. Steel is approximately 30 percent less dense than lead, so higher velocity helps maintain the downrange energy and pattern density needed for effective hunting. This velocity makes the load effective at the distances waterfowl hunters typically encounter.
Can I use this ammunition in my older shotgun?
Steel shot is harder than lead and can cause damage to shotgun barrels not designed for it. Only use Rio Royal BlueSteel in modern shotguns specifically made to handle steel ammunition. If your shotgun predates steel shot regulations or isn't clearly marked for steel compatibility, check with the manufacturer before using any steel loads.





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