Description
The TriStar Hunter Mag II 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 3.5″, Mossy Oak Break-Up, 5 Choke Tubes, 2rd is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun built for the serious waterfowl or turkey hunter who needs reliable performance in tough conditions without breaking the bank. It’s a workhorse shotgun that handles everything from 2¾” target loads to punishing 3.5″ magnum shells, all wrapped in a durable Mossy Oak Break-Up camo finish. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed loads through one, and here’s my take.
Key Features
- Versatile 3.5″ Chamber: Handles the full spectrum of 12-gauge shells, giving you maximum flexibility in the field.
- Durable Mossy Oak Break-Up Finish: More than just looks, this finish protects the metal from the elements and helps you stay concealed.
- Complete 5-Choke Tube System (IC, M, IM, F, XF): Lets you pattern for everything from close-range ducks to long-beard turkeys.
- Gas-Operated Reliability: Softer shooting than an inertia system and tends to cycle lighter target loads more reliably.
- 26″ Balanced Barrel: Offers a great swing for fast-flying birds without feeling too long in a blind or too short for reach.
Specs & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Break-Up |
| Chokes Included | 5 (IC, M, IM, F, XF) |
| Magazine Capacity | 2+1 |
Weighing in at a manageable 7.3 pounds, it carries well through a long day in the marsh. The overall length is just shy of 47 inches, making it a good fit for most shooters and storage in a standard case. The synthetic stock is tough and weather-resistant, and the whole package is drop-in ready—you can take it from the box to the field with just a basic cleaning. That said, you’ll want to pattern it with your chosen choke and shell combination before a hunt; it’s a step that pays off.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the Missouri hunter who wants a dedicated, no-fuss tool for waterfowl or turkey seasons. If you’re tired of worrying about whether your semi-auto will cycle light loads or handle the big magnums, this one is built for that exact purpose. It’s also a solid choice for someone wanting a reliable, camo-clad shotgun for predator hunting without the premium price tag of some bigger names. Look, it’s not a fancy over-under for the clays course—it’s a field gun, pure and simple.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The value is the biggest draw. For under $600, you get a 3.5″-chambered, camo semi-auto with a full set of chokes. The gas system really does tame recoil, especially with those heavy turkey loads. The Mossy Oak Break-Up pattern is effective and the finish is durable. It’s also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, like chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Briley, which use common Benelli/Beretta Mobil threads.
Cons: The two-round magazine capacity (plus one in the chamber) is a legal limit for migratory birds, but some hunters might wish for a plug-removable option for other uses. The trigger is functional but not exceptional—it’s a hunting trigger. At $586.93, it sits in a competitive space, but you’re getting a lot of gun for that money. The balance point is a bit forward-heavy for some, but that 26-inch barrel helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this shotgun reliably cycle light 2¾” target loads?
A: Yes, that’s a key strength of the gas-operated system. I’ve run standard 1-ounce target loads through it without a hiccup, making it suitable for practice or even casual clay shooting.
Q: Is the camo finish applied to the metal barrel and receiver?
A: Absolutely. The Mossy Oak Break-Up isn’t just a dip on the stock; it’s a full coverage, durable finish on all metal surfaces for complete corrosion protection and concealment.
Q: What’s the actual magazine capacity?
A: It comes from the factory configured for waterfowl hunting with a two-round magazine tube (plus one in the chamber for a total of three). This is a fixed, non-extendable tube to comply with federal regulations.
If you need a dependable, versatile shotgun that’s ready for Missouri’s wetlands and woods right out of the box, the TriStar Hunter Mag II deserves a close look. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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