First Impressions of RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga 2-3/4in 1150fps 1-1/8oz Size 8 ST32LR8 42% Off
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga promises a smoother shooting experience for target practice and training. Manufactured by RIO Ammunition, these shells are designed to minimize recoil without sacrificing performance. The 42% Off deal certainly makes them attractive for budget-conscious shooters looking to stock up.
As a seasoned shotgun user, I’ve always sought ammunition that balances power and comfort, especially during extended training sessions. Over the years, I’ve noticed many brands that promise low recoil ammunition, but usually fail to deliver on adequate stopping power. The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga aims to address that common problem.
My introduction to these shells came about when I was searching for a more comfortable option for introducing new shooters to the shotgun. The sharp recoil of standard 12 gauge loads can be intimidating and can deter beginners, impacting their learning curve. I was looking for an option that would allow them to focus on technique and accuracy, rather than flinching from the kick.
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga arrived in a standard cardboard box containing 25 shells. The shells themselves looked well-made, with a clean crimp and consistent markings. Compared to other low-recoil options like the Federal Top Gun Low Recoil or the Winchester AA Low Recoil, the RIO shells seemed to have a similar overall build quality, albeit at a more attractive price point thanks to the discount.
My first impression was positive; the promise of reduced recoil combined with the 42% Off discount made them a worthwhile experiment. I was excited to test whether these shells could deliver a comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing the performance needed for effective target practice. I was pleasantly surprised.
Real-World Testing: Putting RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga 2-3/4in 1150fps 1-1/8oz Size 8 ST32LR8 42% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga at my local shooting range, using a Beretta A300 Outlander semi-automatic shotgun. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the shells’ performance in terms of recoil, accuracy, and cycling reliability. I also took these out to a hunting friend’s clay-shooting facility.
The weather was partly cloudy, with a slight breeze – typical conditions for a range day. The RIO shells performed admirably in these conditions; the reduced recoil was immediately noticeable. New shooters were able to comfortably shoot many rounds in a row, which allowed them to learn to trust the weapon without the fatigue of a larger round.
The shells were easy to load and chamber, and I experienced no issues with cycling in the semi-automatic shotgun. I did not observe any misfires or duds during the initial testing, which is critical for reliability in a training round. This is crucial for training situations and building confidence.
One initial surprise was how clean the shells burned; there was noticeably less residue in the shotgun’s action after firing a box of RIO shells compared to standard loads. This meant less time spent cleaning and more time shooting. The shells also seemed more precise than traditional birdshot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga shells have proven to be remarkably reliable. I have now put several hundred rounds through the Beretta A300 and a pump-action Mossberg 500. I did not observe any signs of degradation in performance.
The shells continued to cycle flawlessly in the Beretta, maintaining consistent accuracy at the 25-yard mark. In the Mossberg 500, the shells also performed well. The hulls ejected cleanly every time, indicating consistent manufacturing.
The shells have held up well in storage too, with no signs of swelling or deformation due to humidity changes. I keep them in a cool, dry place, but they’ve been exposed to some temperature fluctuations. I have confidence in the shelf life of these shells.
Compared to my previous experiences with budget-friendly ammunition, the RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga shells have far exceeded expectations. They offer a consistent, reliable performance that rivals more expensive brands, making them an excellent choice for high-volume shooting and training. They have proven to be a very reliable choice.
Breaking Down the Features of RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga 2-3/4in 1150fps 1-1/8oz Size 8 ST32LR8 42% Off
Specifications
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Gauge: 12
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 inches
- Muzzle Velocity: 1150 feet per second (fps)
- Shot Weight: 1 1/8 ounce
- Shot Size: 8
- Number of Rounds: 25
- Primer Style: Centerfire
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic
- Application: Target, Training
These specifications translate to a balanced load that delivers manageable recoil and consistent patterns. The 1150 fps muzzle velocity is sufficient for breaking clays and hitting targets at reasonable distances, while the 1 1/8 ounce shot weight provides enough pellets for good pattern density. The Size 8 shot is ideal for target shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga performs its job exceptionally well, providing a comfortable and accurate shooting experience. The reduced recoil allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces shooter fatigue, making it ideal for extended training sessions. It is a great round for teaching new shooters.
The primary strength of these shells is their ability to deliver a noticeable reduction in recoil without sacrificing pattern density or reliability. One area for potential improvement might be offering different shot sizes to cater to various target types. The shells meet my expectations for a low-recoil training round, and even exceed them in terms of cleanliness and consistency.
Design & Ergonomics
The shells themselves are designed with a standard 2 3/4-inch length, making them compatible with most 12-gauge shotguns. The plastic cartridge case is sturdy and well-crimped, ensuring reliable feeding and ejection. The shells weigh appropriately for a low-recoil load.
The design is simple and functional, focusing on reliability and ease of use. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using these shells; they function just like any other 12-gauge round. They are very ergonomic due to their lack of recoil.
Durability & Maintenance
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga shells are designed for single-use and are not reloadable. The plastic cartridge case is durable enough to withstand normal handling and storage conditions. They can be stored with relative ease.
Proper storage in a cool, dry place will ensure the shells remain in good condition for an extended period. The reduced residue produced by these shells also minimizes the need for frequent cleaning of the firearm. Therefore, they are relatively easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga shells themselves do not require any specific accessories. However, the reduced recoil may allow shooters to comfortably use lighter shotguns, or try out different cheek weld options on their rifle. This provides a lot of interesting options.
These shells are compatible with any standard 12-gauge shotgun designed for 2 3/4-inch shells. There are no specific customization options for the shells themselves, but they can enhance the overall shooting experience when paired with a properly fitted shotgun. This allows for a wide range of interesting possibilities.
Pros and Cons of RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga 2-3/4in 1150fps 1-1/8oz Size 8 ST32LR8 42% Off
Pros
- Noticeably Reduced Recoil: Makes shooting more comfortable, especially for beginners and extended sessions.
- Consistent Performance: Reliable cycling and consistent patterns ensure accurate target engagement.
- Clean Burning: Minimizes residue in the firearm, reducing cleaning time.
- Affordable Price: The 42% Off discount makes them an excellent value for high-volume shooting.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for target practice, training, and introducing new shooters to the sport.
Cons
- Limited Shot Size Options: Only available in Size 8, which may not be ideal for all target types.
- Not Reloadable: Single-use shells cannot be reloaded for cost savings.
Who Should Buy RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga 2-3/4in 1150fps 1-1/8oz Size 8 ST32LR8 42% Off?
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga shells are perfect for:
- Target shooters seeking a comfortable and accurate round for practice.
- Firearm instructors and training facilities introducing new shooters to shotguns.
- Hunters looking for a low-recoil option for upland game or clay shooting (depending on regulations).
- Anyone seeking an affordable and reliable 12-gauge load for high-volume shooting.
This product might not be the best choice for:
- Hunters requiring larger shot sizes for waterfowl or big game.
- Reloaders looking to save money by reusing cartridge cases.
A must-have accessory is proper hearing protection, as with any ammunition. Consider using a comfortable shooting vest to further mitigate recoil and enhance comfort. It is also worth considering a soft cheek pad for rifles.
Conclusion on RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga 2-3/4in 1150fps 1-1/8oz Size 8 ST32LR8 42% Off
The RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga shells offer an excellent balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. The reduced recoil is a game-changer for extended shooting sessions and new shooters, while the consistent patterns and reliable cycling ensure accurate target engagement. It’s hard to find a better value.
The 42% Off discount makes the price exceptionally justified, positioning these shells as a top choice for high-volume shooting and training. I would personally recommend these shells to anyone looking for a low-recoil 12-gauge option without sacrificing reliability or performance. They provide a winning formula.
If you’re tired of the punishing recoil of standard 12-gauge loads and want a more enjoyable shooting experience, give the RIO Ammunition Star Team 32 Low Recoil 12ga a try. You won’t be disappointed. Stock up now while the 42% Off deal lasts!