First Impressions of RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off promises a blend of performance and environmental consciousness, a claim that immediately piqued my interest given my background in both tactical applications and outdoor pursuits. Knowing RIO Ammunition‘s reputation, I was keen to see how this particular offering stacked up in terms of both effectiveness and eco-friendliness, especially considering the rising demand for sustainable ammunition options.
My search for this specific ammunition stemmed from a need to find a reliable, non-toxic option for waterfowl hunting in areas with strict environmental regulations. I was tired of sifting through lead alternatives that often compromised on power and consistency.
Upon receiving the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel, I was initially impressed by the packaging, a sturdy box containing 25 rounds of 12-gauge shells. The shells themselves had a clean, professional appearance, with a distinct blue hue that hinted at their BlueSteel composition. The hydro-soluble wad immediately caught my eye, a promising sign of the RIO Ammunition‘s commitment to reducing plastic pollution.
Compared to other steel shot loads I’ve used, like Winchester’s Super-X Steel and Federal’s Speed-Shok, the RIO offering seemed to emphasize a balance between velocity and pattern density. While Winchester and Federal prioritize raw speed, the RIO Ammunition seemed to offer a potentially tighter pattern due to the hydro-soluble wad. My decision to try the RIO Ammunition was driven by the promise of this eco-friendly feature and a potential improvement in pattern consistency.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel appeared to be a well-made product with a thoughtful design, poised to potentially deliver both performance and a reduced environmental footprint. The 25% Off deal certainly sweetened the pot, making it an opportune time to thoroughly test this ammunition.
Real-World Testing: Putting RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel at a local sporting clays range, simulating waterfowl hunting conditions. The weather was slightly damp, adding a touch of realism to the experience.
The shells cycled smoothly through my Benelli Super Black Eagle II, and the recoil was manageable, comparable to other 1-oz steel loads. The patterns at 30 yards were surprisingly consistent, with a good spread of shot around the target’s center. There were no noticeable squib loads or failures to eject during the initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel during practice sessions and a few early-season goose hunts, I’ve gained a solid understanding of its reliability. The ammunition has consistently performed well, with no misfires or malfunctions across approximately 200 rounds fired.
The hulls show minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being ejected into muddy conditions. Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe down the shotgun after each use and occasionally clean the bore with a solvent designed for steel shot. Compared to the Kent Fasteel loads I previously used, the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel patterns slightly tighter in my shotgun, leading to cleaner kills on geese at longer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off
Specifications
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and environmental profile. It’s a 12-gauge, 2 3/4-inch shell loaded with 1 ounce of #6 steel shot. The ammunition features a hydro-soluble wad, designed to break down quickly in the environment, reducing plastic waste.
The advertised muzzle velocity is 1315 FPS, offering ample speed for effective waterfowl hunting. The shells are packaged in boxes of 25 rounds, making them convenient for range sessions and hunting trips. These specifications highlight the RIO Ammunition‘s intent to provide a reliable, high-performance load while minimizing its environmental impact.
Performance & Functionality
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel performs admirably in the field, providing consistent patterns and sufficient energy for ethical kills on waterfowl. The #6 steel shot is well-suited for ducks and geese at moderate ranges, offering a good balance of pellet count and penetration.
While the 1315 FPS velocity isn’t the fastest on the market, it provides a manageable recoil impulse, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. The ammunition’s primary strength lies in its pattern consistency, thanks in part to the hydro-soluble wad that minimizes shot deformation. However, in extremely windy conditions, the lighter steel shot can be more affected by drift compared to heavier lead alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel features a standard 2 3/4-inch shell length, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of 12-gauge shotguns. The blue plastic hull is visually appealing and helps differentiate it from other loads in my ammunition bag.
The shells load smoothly into the magazine and eject cleanly, demonstrating good manufacturing tolerances. There’s a slight learning curve involved in patterning the ammunition with different chokes to find the optimal combination for your specific shotgun, but this is common with any new load.
Durability & Maintenance
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel is designed for single-use, but the shells themselves are relatively durable. The plastic hulls resist cracking and deformation under normal handling conditions.
Maintenance is minimal; simply dispose of the spent shells properly after use. Due to the steel shot composition, it’s crucial to clean your shotgun thoroughly after each use to prevent rust and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel doesn’t directly offer accessories or customization options, but its performance can be significantly enhanced by selecting the appropriate choke for your shotgun. Aftermarket chokes designed for steel shot can improve pattern density and effective range.
The ammunition is also compatible with various recoil reduction devices, such as aftermarket recoil pads or gas-operated shotgun systems, to further mitigate recoil. There are no brand-specific accessories required. The ammunition’s compatibility with existing shotgun platforms makes it a versatile choice.
Pros and Cons of RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off
Pros
- Eco-Friendly Hydro-Soluble Wad: Significantly reduces plastic waste in the environment.
- Consistent Patterns: Provides reliable and effective shot distribution for ethical kills.
- Manageable Recoil: Allows for quicker follow-up shots without excessive shoulder fatigue.
- Smooth Cycling: Functions reliably in various shotgun models without jamming.
- Competitively Priced: Offers a good balance of performance and value, especially with the current discount.
Cons
- Steel Shot Susceptibility to Wind: Lighter shot can be more affected by wind drift compared to lead alternatives.
- Requires Thorough Gun Cleaning: Steel shot necessitates diligent cleaning to prevent rust and corrosion in the shotgun barrel.
Who Should Buy RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off?
The RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel is perfect for waterfowl hunters who are conscious of their environmental impact and prioritize using non-toxic ammunition. It’s also well-suited for sporting clays enthusiasts who practice in areas with steel-shot-only regulations.
Hunters prioritizing maximum range and knockdown power in extreme conditions might find heavier, denser shot options more suitable. Individuals who dislike meticulous gun cleaning should be aware of the extra care required when using steel shot. A must-have accessory is a high-quality choke specifically designed for steel shot to maximize pattern density and range.
Conclusion on RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel 12 Gauge 2 3/4” 6 Shot Shotgun Ammunition GLEB326 25% Off
Overall, the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel offers a compelling combination of performance and environmental responsibility. The hydro-soluble wad is a standout feature, addressing a growing concern about plastic pollution in hunting environments.
While steel shot has its limitations, the consistent patterns and manageable recoil of this ammunition make it a viable choice for ethical waterfowl hunting. The current discounted price of $31.39 further enhances its value proposition, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious hunters. I would personally recommend the RIO Ammunition Royal 32 ECO BlueSteel to anyone seeking a reliable, eco-friendly steel shot load for their 12-gauge shotgun. Give it a shot – you might be pleasantly surprised by its performance and commitment to sustainability!