Description
Rio has spent over a century perfecting ammunition, and their 28 gauge Game Load shows exactly why. If you've been looking to step into a lighter gauge that doesn't sacrifice performance, these shells bridge that gap better than anything else out there. You get the recoil management of a 28 while hitting targets with the authority of a much heavier load.
Rio Game Load 28 Gauge Shell Design
These 2-3/4" shells pack 1 ounce of #6 lead shot pushed by a consistent powder charge that delivers 1200 feet per second at the muzzle. That velocity gives you effective range without making your shoulder take a beating, which is why upland hunters and clay shooters alike have made Rio Game Loads their go-to. The construction is straightforward and reliable: quality primers, clean-burning powder, and a wad design built for consistent patterns round after round.
Versatility for Hunting and Target Shooting
The #6 shot size is the sweet spot for what most hunters throw at in the 28 gauge world. It'll handle quail, grouse, and other upland game birds just fine. The pattern density keeps pellets where they need to be without spreading too much, which means fewer misses. For clay target work, particularly skeet and sporting clays, these shells pattern as well as shells costing considerably more. A lot of competitive shooters grabbed Rio loads when they realized they could shoot high volumes without emptying their wallets.
What Comes in the Box
Each box contains 25 rounds, and cases ship in multiples of 10 boxes (250 rounds total). The packaging is standard but protective, and the shells themselves are loaded to SAAMI specifications so you know they'll cycle cleanly in any 28 gauge shotgun built to accept standard 2-3/4" shells.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 28 Gauge
- Shell Length: 2-3/4 inch
- Shot Weight: 1 ounce
- Shot Size: #6 Lead
- Muzzle Velocity: 1200 feet per second
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Boxes per Case: 10
- Manufacturer Part Number: DLBS286
- UPC: 8435101649025
- Manufacturer: Rio Ammunition
What’s Included
- 25 shotgun shells per box
- Plastic hull with high brass base
- Lead shot #6 pellets
- Non-corrosive primer
- Clean-burning powder charge
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hunting is Rio 28 Gauge Game Load best for?
These shells work well for upland game birds like quail, grouse, and pheasant. The 1 oz payload and #6 shot size provide the right balance of pattern density and energy for small to medium-sized birds at typical hunting ranges. They're also plenty effective for clay target shooting in skeet and sporting clays events.
How do Rio 28 gauge loads compare to 20 gauge in terms of recoil?
The 28 gauge produces noticeably less recoil than the 20 gauge while maintaining solid power. If you've felt punished by heavier gauges or prefer a more comfortable shooting experience during long days in the field or on the clay course, the 28 is worth trying. Rio's Game Load hits harder than you'd expect from such a light gauge.
Can I use these Rio shells in my older 28 gauge shotgun?
As long as your shotgun is chambered for standard 2-3/4" shells, these Rio Game Loads will work fine. Check your barrel or manual if you're unsure. Some older guns might have different dimensions, but the vast majority of modern and vintage 28 gauges accept 2-3/4" ammunition without issue.
Are Rio shells suitable for clay target competitions?
Yes. Rio Game Loads pattern consistently and deliver reliable ignition, making them a solid choice for competitive skeet and sporting clays shooting. Many shooters prefer them for practice and training when they need to burn through large quantities of shells without breaking their budget.





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