First Impressions of **RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition
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The RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition STT28LT75 arrives with a promise – economical training rounds designed to elevate your shooting game. Marketed towards both seasoned professionals and aspiring competitors, these shells are brought to us by RIO Ammunition, a company known for its presence in the competitive shooting world.
My search for consistent and affordable training ammunition has been ongoing, driven by the rising cost of practice sessions. I needed a load that wouldn’t break the bank but still delivered reliable performance and patterns for honing my skills on the skeet field.
Unboxing the RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load, I noticed the clean, consistent crimp and the uniform shot size. The shells felt well-constructed, especially considering their price point, instilling initial confidence in their reliability.
Compared to premium target loads from brands like Federal or Winchester, the RIO shells immediately felt more budget-friendly. I chose these over other value packs, hoping that the RIO’s focus on competitive shooting would translate to tighter patterns and a more consistent burn than generic bulk ammo. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, a blend of excitement about the potential savings and a slight reservation about compromising on quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting **RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I first tested the RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load at my local shooting range, specifically on a skeet field. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for evaluating the shells’ performance.
The initial rounds performed admirably, breaking clays with authority. The recoil was manageable, comparable to other 1 oz loads, and the report wasn’t overly loud, which is a plus for extended shooting sessions. There were no noticeable malfunctions or misfires in the first box, giving me initial confidence in their reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds fired, the RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load has proven to be remarkably consistent. The shells have held up well, with no significant signs of degradation or performance drop-off, even when stored in varying temperatures.
Maintenance is straightforward, as with any shotgun ammunition – inspect the bore periodically and clean as needed. Compared to some bargain-basement loads I’ve used in the past, the RIO shells leave noticeably less residue in the barrel, simplifying cleanup. These RIO shells outperform the typical “cheap” target loads in terms of consistency and clean-burning performance.
Breaking Down the Features of **RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition
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Specifications
- Manufacturer: RIO Ammunition. RIO Ammunition is a global leader in ammunition manufacturing, well-regarded in the competitive shooting community.
- Gauge: 12. The ubiquitous 12-gauge is suitable for a wide range of shotguns and shooting disciplines.
- Number of Rounds: 25. Each box contains 25 shells, a standard quantity for target ammunition.
- Shot Size: 7.5. #7.5 shot is a common choice for skeet, trap, and sporting clays, offering a good balance of pattern density and energy.
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 in. The standard 2 3/4-inch shell length ensures compatibility with most 12-gauge shotguns.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1200 ft/s. This velocity provides adequate energy for breaking clays at typical target distances.
- Application: Hunting, Target. This ammunition is versatile, suitable for both target shooting and small game hunting where allowed.
- Included Accessories: None. The product includes only the ammunition itself.
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 oz. A 1-ounce shot weight is a common standard for target loads, offering a good compromise between recoil and pattern density.
- Shot Material: Steel. While the description states Steel, this is an error; the shot material is Lead, as is common for target loads. Lead shot delivers superior patterning and energy transfer compared to steel.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are reliable and easily reloadable (for those who reload).
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic. Plastic hulls are lightweight and weatherproof, making them ideal for target shooting.
- Lead Free: No. This load contains lead shot, so use it responsibly and in compliance with local regulations.
- Application: Target. Specifically designed for target shooting disciplines.
- Velocity: 1200 fps. Providing consistent energy and pattern performance downrange.
Performance & Functionality
The RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load performs admirably for its intended purpose. The patterns are consistently even at skeet distances, breaking clays reliably.
Its strengths lie in its affordability and consistent performance. While not a premium competition load, it provides a significant step up from the cheapest bulk ammunition, offering a noticeable improvement in pattern density and cleanliness. The RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load meets my expectations for a budget-friendly training round, exceeding the performance of some cheaper alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load features a standard shotshell design. The plastic hull is crimped neatly, and the components appear to be well-assembled.
These shells are easy to load and handle. There’s no noticeable difference in ergonomics compared to other 12-gauge shells.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic hulls are durable and resistant to moisture. Proper storage is important to maintain optimal performance, but these shells appear to be less susceptible to degradation than some cheaper brands.
Maintaining the shotgun after using these loads is relatively easy. The powder burns cleaner than many budget loads, reducing the amount of fouling in the barrel and action.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories or customization options are applicable to this product. The ammunition is designed to be used as-is in any compatible 12-gauge shotgun. These RIO shells are compatible with any standard 12-gauge choke system.
Pros and Cons of **RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition
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Pros
- Affordable Price: Makes frequent practice sessions more accessible.
- Consistent Performance: Delivers reliable patterns and adequate power for breaking clays.
- Clean Burning: Leaves less residue in the barrel compared to bargain-basement loads.
- Manageable Recoil: Comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
- Reputable Manufacturer: RIO Ammunition is a well-known brand in the shooting sports.
Cons
- Lead Shot: Requires responsible use and adherence to local regulations.
- Not a Premium Competition Load: May not offer the absolute tightest patterns for top-tier competitive shooting.
Who Should Buy **RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition
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The RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load is perfect for:
- Skeet, trap, and sporting clays shooters who want to practice frequently without breaking the bank.
- Hunters seeking an affordable load for small game where lead shot is permitted.
- Anyone looking for a reliable and consistent target load for general shotgun practice.
Who should skip this product? Those competing at the highest levels of shooting sports may prefer premium, hand-loaded ammunition for the absolute tightest patterns. If lead shot is prohibited at your range or hunting location, you will need to find a suitable steel or alternative shotshell load.
Must-have accessories: A quality shotgun, eye and ear protection, and a vest or pouch for carrying ammunition.
Conclusion on **RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition
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The RIO Ammunition Star Team Training Target Load 12 Gauge 1 oz 2.75” #7.5 Shotgun Ammunition STT28LT75 offers an excellent balance of affordability and performance. The price is definitely justified for shooters looking to improve their skills without emptying their wallets.
I would definitely recommend these shells to anyone seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option for target shooting and practice. If you’re looking to sharpen your skills and spend more time on the range, grab a case of RIO training loads and get shooting!