First Impressions of RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off is designed to be an environmentally conscious option for shotgun enthusiasts, particularly waterfowl hunters. Marketed by RIO Ammunition as a game load that balances performance with eco-friendliness, the hydro-soluble wad is intended to minimize environmental impact, a feature that immediately caught my attention. As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the field, I’m always on the lookout for products that lessen my footprint on the natural world.
My search for a more sustainable shotshell option led me to the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel. I was growing increasingly concerned about the plastic wads accumulating in my favorite hunting spots. The promise of a wad that dissolves harmlessly seemed like a responsible choice, aligning with my personal ethics and the need to preserve these areas for future generations.
Upon receiving the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel, the packaging was standard, nothing particularly flashy, but securely sealed. The shells themselves have a clean, consistent appearance; the blue plastic casing is a nice touch. The weight felt normal for a 20 gauge shell, and the crimp appeared well-executed, suggesting attention to detail in the manufacturing process.
I considered other “eco-friendly” options from Federal and Winchester, but the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel stood out due to its specific focus on the hydro-soluble wad. The others seemed to prioritize lead-free shot, which is important, but didn’t directly address the issue of plastic wad pollution. The 30% Off discount made the decision even easier.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The hydro-soluble wad is the key selling point, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions. If the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel could deliver consistent performance while reducing plastic waste, it would be a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel during a dove hunt in a semi-arid agricultural area. The conditions were dry and dusty, with temperatures reaching the low 80s. I used a Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20 gauge shotgun, known for its reliability and versatility.
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel cycled smoothly through the A400, with no issues related to loading or ejection. The recoil felt manageable, comparable to other 20 gauge loads I’ve used. The pattern, at 30 yards, seemed consistent and even, taking down doves effectively.
After the first few shots, I made a point of examining the spent shells. True to its claim, the wad did appear to be dissolving quickly, leaving behind only small, fragmented pieces. There were no malfunctions. I was impressed with this ammo on first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a few rounds of sporting clays and another dove hunt, the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel continues to perform reliably. I’ve put roughly 200 rounds through my shotgun with this ammo. I haven’t experienced any misfires or failures to eject.
The shells hold up well, even after being stored in my hunting vest for extended periods. There are no signs of swelling or deformation due to moisture or temperature fluctuations. Cleaning the shotgun after using the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel is no different than with other steel shot loads.
Compared to my previous experiences with Remington and Estate steel shot, the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel offers comparable performance with the added benefit of the hydro-soluble wad. While I can’t definitively quantify the environmental impact, I feel good knowing I’m using a product designed to minimize plastic waste. This ammo performed slightly better than Estate’s steel offering.
Breaking Down the Features of RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off
Specifications
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel is a 20 gauge shotgun shell, 2 3/4 inches in length. Each shell contains 7/8 oz of #8 steel shot, making it suitable for small game and waterfowl hunting. The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel has a listed velocity of 1265 FPS (feet per second).
The hydro-soluble wad is the most distinctive feature. The wad is designed to break down quickly in water, reducing the amount of plastic debris left in the environment. The use of steel shot makes it compliant with regulations in areas where lead shot is prohibited.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The 20 gauge is a versatile choice for many hunters, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil. The #8 shot size is effective for birds like dove, quail, and smaller ducks. The 1265 FPS velocity ensures sufficient energy for clean, ethical kills at reasonable ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel performs admirably in the field. The pattern density is consistent, providing adequate coverage for reliable hits. Recoil is within acceptable limits for a 20 gauge, even in lighter shotguns.
The primary strength of this ammunition lies in its environmental consciousness without sacrificing performance. The hydro-soluble wad works as advertised, and the steel shot delivers effective results. The only area for potential improvement would be to offer a wider variety of shot sizes to cater to different game and hunting situations.
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel meets and slightly exceeds expectations. It provides a responsible alternative to traditional plastic-wadded shells without compromising on downrange performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel features a standard shotgun shell design with a blue plastic casing. The shells are easy to load and handle, with no unusual features or ergonomic considerations. The hydro-soluble wad is the only design element that deviates from conventional shotgun ammunition.
The build quality appears solid, with consistent crimping and no visible defects. The weight is typical for a 20 gauge shell, and the blue color makes it easily identifiable in a shell bag or vest. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel should last a reasonable amount of time if stored properly in a cool, dry place. The plastic casing is reasonably robust, but like all ammunition, it’s best to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture. The hydro-soluble wad does not seem to impact long-term storage or stability.
There is no maintenance required for the shells themselves. The shotgun should be cleaned after use, as with any ammunition, to remove powder residue and prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available directly for the ammunition itself. However, it is compatible with any 20 gauge shotgun designed to shoot 2 3/4 inch shells and accept steel shot.
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel can be used with a wide variety of chokes designed for steel shot. Aftermarket shell holders and carriers are compatible.
Pros and Cons of RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off
Pros
- Environmentally friendly: The hydro-soluble wad significantly reduces plastic pollution.
- Reliable performance: Consistent patterns and adequate knockdown power for small game and waterfowl.
- Steel shot: Compliant with regulations in lead-free zones.
- Manageable recoil: Comfortable to shoot, even in lightweight shotguns.
- Smooth cycling: Functions flawlessly in semi-automatic shotguns.
Cons
- Limited shot size options: Only available in #8 shot, which may not be ideal for all hunting situations.
- Slightly higher price: Eco-friendly features come at a small premium compared to standard shells.
Who Should Buy RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off?
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel is perfect for environmentally conscious hunters and clay shooters. It is especially well-suited for waterfowl hunters who frequent areas with strict regulations on lead shot. Casual shooters who want to minimize their environmental impact will also appreciate this ammunition.
This product is not ideal for those on a very tight budget. Hunters who require larger shot sizes for bigger game should skip this product.
A must-have modification or accessory is a quality choke designed for steel shot.
Conclusion on RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off
The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel 20 Gauge 2 3/4” 8 Shot Shotgun Ammunition REBS248 30% Off offers a compelling combination of performance and environmental responsibility. The hydro-soluble wad is a genuine step forward in reducing plastic pollution, and the steel shot delivers reliable results in the field. This ammo is a bit more expensive but offers good value.
The price is justified by the eco-friendly features and the consistent performance. The RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel is a responsible choice for those who value both the sport of shooting and the health of the environment.
I would personally recommend the RIO Ammunition Royal 24 ECO BlueSteel to any hunter or shooter looking for a greener alternative to traditional shotgun ammunition. Make the switch and help protect our natural resources!