Rio Ammunition Royal Bluesteel 12 Gauge 3" 1 1/8 oz 25 Rounds
- Ounces:
- 1 1/8 oz
- Capacity-Rounds:
- 25
- Caliber-Gauge:
- 12 Gauge
- Length:
- 3.00"
- SHOT Size:
- 3
- HazAir:
- Yes
Rio Ammunition Royal Bluesteel 12 gauge 3-inch shotgun shells bring steel shot performance to waterfowl season in a 25-round box built for serious hunters. These nontoxic loads stack 1 1/8 ounces of perfectly round steel shot in a 3-inch hull—the combination you need to consistently bring down ducks and geese in tough conditions. Whether you're working marshes in cold weather or dealing with high, fast birds, Royal Bluesteel delivers the velocity and pattern density that separate reliable performance from wishful thinking.
Rio engineered these loads specifically for waterfowl applications, which means every shell is loaded to consistently perform when conditions turn ugly—fog, wind, rain, or freezing spray. The round steel shot profile promotes even pellet distribution for cleaner patterns downrange, reducing crippling losses and making your shooting count. For hunters who demand ammunition that works as hard as they do, Royal Bluesteel removes the guessing game from your ammunition selection.
A 25-round box gives you a practical quantity for a morning or afternoon hunt, or as a go-to choice to rotate through your favorite 12 gauges. If you run multiple shotguns or hunt with a partner, a single box lets you test the load in your gun without overcommitting to a full case.
Key Features
- Nontoxic steel shot formulation compliant with waterfowl regulations
- 3-inch 12 gauge hull for maximum payload in standard magnum shotguns
- 1 1/8 oz shot load delivers density and downrange energy
- Precisely round steel shot pellets for consistent, even patterns
- Built to perform reliably in adverse hunting conditions
- 25-round quantity for practical field use
Specifications
| Gauge | 12 |
| Chamber Length | 3" |
| Shot Weight | 1 1/8 oz |
| Shot Type | Steel (nontoxic) |
| Round Count | 25 rounds |
| Intended Use | Waterfowl hunting |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Rio Royal Bluesteel shells legal for waterfowl hunting?
Yes. Rio Royal Bluesteel loads use nontoxic steel shot, which meets federal and state requirements for waterfowl hunting. Always verify your local regulations before heading afield.
What shotguns will these 3-inch shells work in?
Rio Royal Bluesteel 3-inch loads are designed for 12 gauge shotguns chambered in 3 inches. Check your shotgun's marking on the barrel or receiver to confirm it's rated for 3-inch shells; using them in a 2¾-inch-only gun can cause dangerous pressure or failure to function.
How many rounds are in a box?
This box contains 25 rounds, providing a practical quantity for a hunt or range session.
Can I use these shells in an autoloader or pump shotgun?
Steel shot shells can be used in most modern autoloaders and pump shotguns, but older or vintage guns may have restrictions. Always consult your shotgun's manual or manufacturer to confirm compatibility with steel shot before use.
Ammunition Restrictions:
You must be 18 years or older to purchase shotgun or rifle ammunition, and 21 years or older for handgun ammunition. All ammunition must be shipped via Domestic Ground, and shipping is not available for international residents. Residents of CA, DC, IL, MA, NY, CT, and NJ may be subject to additional restrictions. Always ensure you use the appropriate ammunition for your firearms, and check your state and local laws for any other relevant regulations on firearms and ammunition. Due to Department of Transportation regulations, returns on ammo cannot be accepted. Please verify local laws before placing an order.
We are unable to ship ammunition to the following:
- Hawaii
- Alaska
- P.O. Boxes
- APO/FPO Addresses
- International Addresses
- U.S. Territories
- U.S. addresses with zip codes starting with (100, 101, 102)
Illinois residents must provide a copy of a valid FOID Card or Valid Concealed Carry License, along with their IL driver’s license or IL state identification card to purchase ammunition. The ammunition can only be shipped to an address listed on either of those two documents.
Email: [email protected]

