Description
The Rio Royal BlueSteel Super Magnum packs a serious load for hunters who want the extra payload that a 3.5-inch shell offers. You get 1 3/8 ounces of non-toxic steel shot moving at 1550 fps, which gives you plenty of pellet count and range capability when you need it. The number 2 shot size handles waterfowl hunting applications well, especially for ducks and geese in wetland environments.
What makes this load stand out is Rio's commitment to perfectly spherical steel shot. Round pellets fly truer and pattern tighter than irregular shot, which translates to denser patterns at distance. The whole cartridge is built around the demands of steel shot, with powders and wads specifically tuned for the job. You won't get inconsistent performance between shells in a box.
Super Magnum Steel Shot for Extended Range
The 3.5-inch platform lets Rio load more payload than standard 3-inch shells, giving you an edge when distance matters. Whether you're passing ducks over open water or hunting geese in challenging conditions, the extra pellet count helps ensure you put enough lead in the right spot. These are built to handle adverse weather and tough hunting situations where pattern density counts.
Rio Ammunition's Track Record
Rio manufactures their own components from the ground up, which means consistent quality control across primers, powders, wads, and shot. The brand has earned respect among waterfowl hunters for producing reliable loads that function in various shotguns without fuss. Many hunters keep coming back to Rio because the shells simply work.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3.5 inches
- Shot Size: #2
- Shot Type: Steel (Non-Toxic)
- Shot Weight: 1 3/8 ounces
- Muzzle Velocity: 1550 fps
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Boxes per Case: 10
- Manufacturer: Rio Ammunition
- Model Number: RBSSM402
- UPC: 8435101624121
What’s Included
- 25 shells per box
- Super Magnum 3.5" cartridges with steel shot
Frequently Asked Questions
What shotguns are these Rio BlueSteel shells compatible with?
These 3.5-inch shells require a shotgun specifically chambered for 3.5-inch shells. Always check your gun's specifications before using any ammunition. Most modern waterfowl-capable shotguns will handle them, including semi-autos like Benellis and Beretas, pumps like Remington 870s, and newer over-unders. When in doubt, verify your shotgun's chamber length before purchasing.
Are these good for both ducks and geese?
Number 2 steel shot is a solid middle-ground choice for waterfowl. It works well on ducks throughout the season and handles geese decently at typical hunting ranges. For very large geese at distance, some hunters prefer bigger shot like BBs, but #2 steel gets the job done when you place your pattern right. Pattern your specific gun and choke combination to know your effective range.
What's the difference between these and 3-inch shells?
The main advantage is payload. These 3.5-inch shells hold 1 3/8 ounces compared to standard 3-inch shells that typically carry 1 1/8 ounces. That extra payload means more pellets on target, which matters when distance or heavy vegetation is in play. You'll feel more recoil and spend a bit more per round, so decide if extended range capability fits your typical hunting situation.
How does Rio's spherical shot compare to other brands?
Rio emphasizes perfectly round pellets, which pattern better and fly straighter than irregularly shaped shot. Round steel maintains its shape through the barrel and downrange because steel doesn't deform like lead. Consistent pellet roundness across a box means you get more predictable patterns, which is something hunters notice when they pattern test different brands side-by-side.





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