Low Recoil, High-Velocity Performance for the Modern Waterfowler

The Rio Blue Steel 20-gauge is an excellent choice for waterfowlers who want the fast-flying reliability of non-toxic steel without the punishing recoil of heavy 3-inch magnum loads. Packed into a standard 2 3/4" (70mm) hull, this 24gm (approx. 7/8 oz or 24gr) payload is perfectly optimised for shooting ducks over decoys or navigating tight wetland blocks.

The choice of #3 steel shot makes this a highly versatile cartridge. In the 20-gauge platform, #3 steel is widely considered the "sweet spot". It offers a balance, providing enough pellet count to ensure dense, gap-free patterns, while maintaining enough individual pellet mass to cleanly harvest medium-sized birds like Mallards and Paradise Ducks at sensible mid-ranges.

Manufactured in Spain, Rio pairs their perfectly spherical, zinc-coated steel shot with clean-burning powders and reliable primers. To ensure your shotgun remains in pristine condition, the payload is encased in a specially engineered, extra-thick plastic cup wad that completely protects your barrel's interior from scoring.

• Non-Toxic Payload: 100% lead-free steel shot, fully compliant with New Zealand Fish & Game regulations for hunting over public waterways and wetlands.

• Standard 2 3/4" Hull: Fits and cycles flawlessly in standard 2 3/4" chambered 20-gauge shotguns, producing significantly less felt recoil than magnum loads.

• Optimised #3 Shot: Delivers the ideal combination of kinetic energy and pattern density for close to mid-range waterfowling.

• All-Weather Reliability: High-quality primers and moisture-resistant hulls ensure consistent, sure-fire ignition on freezing, damp mornings in the maimai.

• Protective Steel Wad: Features a thick-walled, pre-slit plastic shot cup to protect your barrel and deliver uniform, tight patterns.