Rio Ammunition Royal Pheasant 28ga 2 3/4" #5 Shot - 25 Rounds

The Rio Ammunition Royal Pheasant 28-gauge shotshell is a purpose-built upland load for shooters who prefer the mild recoil and handling of the smaller gauge without sacrificing effective bird patterns. Loaded with #5 copper-plated shot in a 2 3/4" hull, this round delivers the velocity and pattern density needed for clean passes on pheasants and other upland game at typical hunting distances. Rio's Royal Pheasant line has earned trust among 28-gauge enthusiasts who understand that downsizing from 12 or 20 gauge doesn't mean compromising performance—it means shooting smarter and enjoying a day in the field without the shoulder punishment.

The copper-plated shot design reduces pellet deformation in the barrel and maintains consistent patterns downrange, which matters when you're working birds at distance. The 2 3/4" hull is the standard for 28-gauge ammunition, chambered in virtually all modern 28-gauge shotguns, whether you're shooting an over-under, semi-auto, or side-by-side. Whether you're a diehard small-gauge devotee or a 12-gauge shooter trying lighter recoil for extended hunting sessions, the Royal Pheasant delivers the reliability and field performance Rio is known for.

Each box contains 25 rounds, so you'll have enough for a full morning of wingshooting practice or a solid day hunting. Keep several boxes in your truck or vest for longer trips—consistency matters when you're dialing in your lead and pattern on flushing birds.

Key Features

• 28-gauge, 2 3/4" hull—standard chamber length for all modern 28-gauge shotguns
• #5 copper-plated shot for reduced deformation and reliable pattern density
• Purpose-designed for upland game birds including pheasant
• 25 rounds per box

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What shotguns will this ammo work in?

Rio Royal Pheasant 28-gauge ammunition fits any 28-gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4" shells. That covers the vast majority of modern 28-gauge shotguns, including over-unders, semi-autos, pumps, and side-by-sides. Check your gun's chamber marking to confirm 2 3/4" compatibility before loading.

Is #5 shot good for pheasant hunting?

Yes. #5 is the traditional pheasant load across shotgun gauges, offering a balance of pellet energy and pattern density at typical upland hunting distances. It's effective on pheasant-sized birds at ranges where most hunters encounter them in the field.

Why choose 28-gauge for upland hunting?

The 28-gauge delivers lighter recoil and better swing characteristics than heavier gauges while maintaining effective pheasant hunting performance with the right load. Many shooters find it more pleasant to shoot all day, especially in rough terrain or during extended hunting sessions. If you already shoot 28-gauge, you know the benefits; if you're new to the gauge, Rio's Royal Pheasant is a solid introduction.

What's the difference between copper-plated and other shot types?

Copper-plated shot is hardened by a thin copper coating, which reduces pellet deformation when traveling through the barrel and shot column. This helps maintain tighter patterns and more consistent performance downrange—important when precision matters on wild birds.