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Rio Royal BlueSteel Magnum 12ga 3″ 1-1/4oz #3 Steel

UPC: 8435101623940

$20.99

271 in stock

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Description

Rio's Royal BlueSteel Magnum loads bring serious firepower to wetland hunting where steel shot is required. Each 3-inch shell carries 1-1/4 ounces of size 3 steel shot launched at 1400 feet per second, providing the velocity and payload density needed for confident shots on ducks and geese.

What Makes Royal BlueSteel Steel Shot Effective

The real advantage here is Rio's commitment to perfectly spherical steel pellets. Round shot patterns more consistently than irregular pellets, which means tighter groups downrange and fewer cripples. The powder and wad combination Rio uses is specifically engineered for the unique challenges of steel loads, so you get reliable ignition and predictable performance even in harsh weather conditions that often plague waterfowl seasons.

Size 3 Shot for Medium and Longer Range Work

Size 3 shot sits in a sweet spot for waterfowl. It delivers more pellets per ounce than larger sizes like BB or 2 shot, giving you denser patterns at typical duck hunting distances. At the same time, each pellet carries enough energy to cleanly take geese when you need it. The 1-1/4 ounce payload packs plenty of shot in a standard 3-inch shell, so you're not sacrificing anything for the convenience of magnum length.

Rio Royal BlueSteel in Practice

Built from components Rio manufactures in-house including cases, primers, and powder, these shells deliver the kind of consistency waterfowl hunters depend on. The lead-free steel construction meets regulations wherever you hunt, and the magnum length gives you flexibility with modern shotgun designs. Whether you're hunting open water, flooded timber, or coastal wetlands, the velocity and pattern characteristics of these loads handle the distance and conditions.

Key Specifications

  • Gauge: 12 Gauge
  • Shell Length: 3 inches (Magnum)
  • Shot Type: Steel
  • Shot Size: #3
  • Payload: 1-1/4 ounces
  • Muzzle Velocity: 1400 fps
  • Rounds per Box: 25
  • Manufacturer: Rio Ammunition
  • Model Number: RBSM363
  • UPC: 8435101623940

What’s Included

  • 25 shotgun shells per box

Frequently Asked Questions

What hunting situations is the Royal BlueSteel Magnum #3 shot best suited for?

Size 3 shot works well for ducks and geese across typical waterfowl hunting ranges. The denser pellet count makes it effective at 30-40 yard ranges where most shots happen, and the larger individual pellets still carry enough energy for geese when needed. It's a versatile choice for mixed waterfowl seasons.

Are Rio Royal BlueSteel shells compatible with all 12 gauge shotguns?

These are 3-inch magnum shells, so your shotgun must be chambered for 3-inch loads. Check your shotgun's barrel marking or owner's manual to confirm chamber length. Once confirmed as 3-inch capable, Rio shells work reliably in semi-automatic, pump, and break-action shotguns.

How does the ballistics compare to other steel shot options?

The 1400 fps velocity is competitive in the waterfowl market and pairs well with the dense payload of size 3 shot. Rio's spherical pellets pattern tighter than irregular shot, which translates to cleaner kills at range. At this velocity and payload, you're getting performance comparable to other premium steel loads at a more accessible price point.

Why use steel shot instead of other lead-free options?

Steel is the proven standard for waterfowl hunting and has decades of real-world success in the field. It's effective, affordable, and widely available. While premium alternatives like bismuth or tungsten exist, steel shot like Rio Royal BlueSteel delivers reliable performance without the higher cost, making it the practical choice for most waterfowl hunters.

Additional information

UPC

8435101623940

Manufacturer

Manufacturer Part Number

RBSM363

Caliber/Gauge

12 Gauge

Length

3"

Shot Size

3

Units per Box

25

Cost per Round

0.84

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