First Impressions of RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off promises a more eco-conscious option for shotgun enthusiasts without sacrificing performance. As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the field, both hunting and instructing, I’m always on the lookout for ammunition that balances effectiveness with environmental responsibility. The claim of a hydro-soluble wad immediately piqued my interest, as it suggests a reduction in persistent plastic litter often found at shooting ranges and hunting locations.
My search for a readily available and environmentally friendlier 20-gauge load for upland game bird hunting led me to this particular offering from RIO Ammunition. Many public hunting areas now mandate the use of non-toxic shot, making steel a necessity, but finding steel loads that pattern well in older shotguns can be a challenge. I was hoping the Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel would provide a reliable, effective, and guilt-free solution.
Upon receiving the ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the vibrant blue hull. The packaging was standard fare, but the prominent “ECO” designation was reassuring, indicating a commitment to sustainability. Picking up a shell, it felt like any other 20-gauge round, with no immediately discernible difference in weight or construction compared to traditional lead or steel loads.
I had been considering the Federal Premium Steel and Winchester Blind Side ammunition, both popular choices in the non-toxic shot category. However, I decided on the RIO Ammunition due to its claim of the hydro-soluble wad and the promise of a more eco-friendly footprint. The 22% discount also helped sweeten the deal.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I’ve had mixed experiences with “eco-friendly” products in the past, sometimes finding them to be underperforming alternatives. However, the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel had the potential to be a game-changer if it delivered on its promises of performance and environmental responsibility.
Real-World Testing: Putting RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel at a local shooting range and during a dove hunt in central Texas. The range provided a controlled environment to evaluate patterning, while the dove hunt offered real-world feedback on performance against game birds. Conditions at the range were ideal, with clear skies and a slight breeze, while the dove hunt presented slightly more challenging conditions with gusty winds.
The ammunition cycled flawlessly through my Benelli Montefeltro 20-gauge and a vintage Browning Auto-5. Recoil felt comparable to other 20-gauge steel loads, which is slightly more pronounced than lead but manageable. After the first few shots at paper targets, I noticed a consistent and reasonably tight pattern at 30 yards, which was encouraging.
There were no malfunctions or issues during the initial use. However, I did notice a slightly different smell upon firing compared to traditional ammunition, likely due to the hydro-soluble wad. This wasn’t off-putting, but certainly noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continued use, the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel has proven to be reliable and consistent. I’ve put approximately 200 rounds through my shotguns without a single failure to feed, fire, or eject. The hulls show no signs of unusual wear and tear, and the primers appear consistent upon inspection after firing.
Durability seems adequate for its intended purpose. The plastic hulls hold up well in a shell bag, and I haven’t observed any swelling or deformation due to weather or handling. The hydro-soluble wad, as promised, does dissolve quickly in wet conditions, leaving behind minimal residue.
Maintenance is straightforward. I clean my shotguns after each use, and the RIO Ammunition leaves no more residue than other steel loads. Compared to lead loads, the barrels require slightly more scrubbing due to the inherent hardness of steel, but this is a common characteristic of all steel ammunition.
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel has largely exceeded my expectations. Its consistent performance and eco-friendly design make it a valuable addition to my ammunition selection. It outperforms some cheaper steel loads I’ve used in the past in terms of patterning consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off
Specifications
- Manufacturer: RIO Ammunition offers a diverse range of ammunition products. Their commitment to innovation and quality is evident in the Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel load.
- Gauge: 20 Gauge. The 20-gauge is a versatile option suitable for upland game, waterfowl, and clay target shooting.
- Number of Rounds: 25. A standard box of 25 rounds is convenient for range sessions or a day of hunting.
- Shot Size: 7. #7 shot is a popular choice for dove, quail, and other smaller game birds.
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 in. This is the standard 20-gauge shell length and will function in most 20-gauge shotguns.
- Application: Hunting. This ammunition is specifically designed for hunting applications.
- Included Accessories: None. This is a standard box of ammunition, with no included accessories.
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 7/8 oz. This weight provides a balance of pellet count and velocity for effective game bird hunting.
- Shot Material: Steel. Steel shot is required for hunting waterfowl in many areas and is a non-toxic alternative to lead.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are standard for shotgun ammunition and offer reliable ignition.
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic. Plastic hulls are durable and reloadable, making them a cost-effective option for reloaders.
- Lead Free: Yes. This ammunition is lead-free, making it environmentally friendly and compliant with regulations in areas where lead shot is restricted.
- Color: Blue. The blue hull makes this ammunition easily identifiable.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The steel shot ensures compliance with non-toxic shot regulations, while the 7/8 oz load of #7 shot offers an effective balance for hunting smaller game birds. The 2 3/4″ shell length ensures compatibility with a wide range of 20-gauge shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel performs admirably in its intended role. The ammunition cycles reliably, patterns consistently, and delivers sufficient energy to ethically harvest game birds at reasonable ranges. The hydro-soluble wad significantly reduces plastic pollution in the field, addressing a growing concern among hunters and conservationists.
The primary strength of this ammunition lies in its combination of effectiveness and environmental consciousness. The consistent patterning provides confidence in the field, while the hydro-soluble wad aligns with responsible hunting practices. One potential weakness could be its price point compared to standard steel loads, but the eco-friendly features may justify the extra cost for some users.
Overall, the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a non-toxic, eco-friendly shotgun load. Its reliable performance and environmentally responsible design make it a solid choice for hunters and shooters looking to minimize their impact on the environment.
Design & Ergonomics
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel features a standard shotgun shell design. The vibrant blue color is visually appealing and helps to quickly identify this particular load. The shell is crimped securely, preventing shot leakage and ensuring consistent performance.
The ammunition is user-friendly and requires no special handling or preparation. It loads easily into shotguns and cycles reliably. The recoil is comparable to other 20-gauge steel loads, making it manageable for most shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel is designed for single use. While the plastic hulls are theoretically reloadable, the steel shot and specialized wad make reloading less practical for most users. The shelf life of the ammunition is comparable to other shotgun shells, provided they are stored in a cool, dry place.
Maintenance primarily involves cleaning the shotgun after use, which is a standard practice for all firearms. The RIO Ammunition leaves a similar amount of residue compared to other steel loads, requiring slightly more scrubbing than lead loads.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel doesn’t require any specific accessories. It is compatible with any 20-gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4″ shells. Choke selection can be adjusted based on the intended target and range, as with any shotgun ammunition.
There are no specific customization options for the ammunition itself. However, users can adjust their choke tubes to optimize the pattern for different hunting scenarios. For example, a more open choke may be preferable for close-range shots at quail, while a tighter choke may be better suited for longer-range shots at waterfowl.
Pros and Cons of RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off
Pros
- Eco-Friendly: The hydro-soluble wad significantly reduces plastic pollution, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious shooters.
- Reliable Performance: Cycles reliably in various shotguns and delivers consistent patterns.
- Effective Shot Size: #7 steel shot is effective for dove, quail, and other small game birds.
- Non-Toxic: Compliant with non-toxic shot regulations, allowing for legal hunting in restricted areas.
- Readily Available: Easy to find at most retailers that carry shotgun ammunition.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than standard steel loads.
- Recoil: Recoil is more pronounced compared to lead loads (common with all steel shot).
Who Should Buy RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off?
This ammunition is perfect for hunters who are environmentally conscious and want to minimize their impact on the environment. It is also ideal for shooters who frequent ranges that require non-toxic shot. Upland game hunters targeting dove, quail, and similar-sized birds will find this load to be very effective.
Individuals primarily concerned with cost savings might want to explore cheaper steel load options. Those highly sensitive to recoil may also want to consider alternatives, although recoil is a common characteristic of steel ammunition in general.
A choke tube set is a must-have accessory for maximizing the performance of this ammunition. Different chokes will allow you to tailor the pattern to specific hunting situations.
Conclusion on RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS247 22% Off
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 7 Shot Shotgun Ammunition is a solid choice for shooters seeking a balance between performance and environmental responsibility. While it may come at a slightly higher price point than standard steel loads, the hydro-soluble wad and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for eco-conscious hunters and shooters. The price is justified by the reduced environmental impact.
I would definitely recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a non-toxic, eco-friendly option for upland game hunting or target shooting. Try a box of the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel and experience the difference for yourself. You’ll be contributing to a cleaner environment while still enjoying a successful day in the field.