Description
The TriStar TSA Semi-Automatic 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3.5″ Chamber, Realtree Max 4 Synthetic Finish is a gas-operated, 12-gauge shotgun built for hunters seeking a reliable, affordable, and versatile field gun. It offers a long 28-inch barrel for smooth swings, a 3.5-inch chamber for maximum shell compatibility, and a durable synthetic stock finished in Realtree Max-4 camouflage for effective concealment in a variety of environments.
Key Features
- Versatile 3.5″ Chamber: Handles everything from light 2.75″ target loads to heavy 3.5″ magnum waterfowl and turkey shells, giving you serious flexibility in the field.
- 28″ Vent-Rib Barrel: Provides a long, consistent sight plane for improved accuracy on crossing shots and flying birds. The vent rib aids in heat dissipation and reduces mirage.
- Realtree Max-4 Camo Synthetic Stock: A tough, weather-resistant finish that breaks up your outline in timber, fields, and marshland. It’s built to take abuse without showing it.
- Gas-Operated System: Softer recoil compared to many inertia-driven models, making long days at the range or in the blind more manageable. This system also tends to be more forgiving with a wider range of ammunition.
- 5+1 Capacity: Offers a standard magazine capacity for most hunting scenarios, balancing firepower with a streamlined profile.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 49″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.1 lbs |
| Finish | Realtree Max-4 Synthetic |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated |
| Magazine Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the budget-conscious hunter who doesn’t want to compromise on core functionality. Think of the waterfowler pounding marsh ducks, the turkey hunter set up in a blind, or the upland shooter covering CRP fields. If you need one gun to handle multiple seasons and you’re watching your wallet, the TriStar TSA presents a compelling argument. It’s also a solid choice for a new hunter’s first semi-auto, where the lower price point and reduced recoil of the gas system make for a friendly introduction. Here’s the thing—you’re getting a 3.5″ chamber capable of firing heavy magnum loads at a price point often reserved for 3″-only guns.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The primary advantage is undeniable value. At $568.60, you’re getting a feature set that rivals shotguns costing $200-$300 more. The 3.5″ chamber is a major pro for versatility, and the Realtree Max-4 finish is practical and durable right out of the box. The gas system tames recoil effectively, which is a tangible benefit during long shooting sessions. It’s a simple, no-frills workhorse.
Cons: To hit this price, corners are cut somewhere. You might find the finish on metal parts isn’t as corrosion-resistant as a Beretta A300 or a Benelli. The trigger may be a bit heavier or less crisp. The overall fit and finish won’t match those premium brands, but that’s the tradeoff. The weight, at around 7.1 pounds, is fairly standard for a gun of this barrel length, but some may find it slightly muzzle-heavy compared to shorter-barreled models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this shotgun cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Generally, yes. The gas-operated system is designed to be more forgiving with a wide range of ammunition pressures, including lighter 2.75″ target and field loads. For the most reliable cycling, it’s always best to break the gun in with a few boxes of the ammunition you plan to use most often.
Q: Is the camouflage pattern applied to the metal parts as well?
A: Typically on this model, the synthetic stock and forend are fully camouflaged in Realtree Max-4. The metal receiver and barrel are usually finished in a matte black or a durable, non-reflective coating that complements the camo, but they are not patterned. This provides good concealment while keeping manufacturing costs down.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The TriStar TSA commonly includes a set of interchangeable choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full) with the purchase, giving you immediate flexibility for different game and ranges. They use a standard choke thread pattern, so aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock are often compatible if you want to fine-tune your pattern.
Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, the TriStar TSA offers a lot of gun for the money. If your priority is a dependable, versatile hunting tool that gets the job done without draining your bank account, this semi-auto deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
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