Description
The TriStar Viper G2, 28 Ga, 26″, 2.75,” 5rd, Turkish Walnut, Silver is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for upland hunting and sport shooting. It’s a lightweight, reliable 28-gauge built on a scaled-down receiver, featuring a Turkish walnut stock and a silver-finished receiver for a classic look with modern function. I’ve put a few hundred target and field loads through one, and it’s a smooth-handling piece that fits out of the box for most shooters.
Key Features
- 28-Gauge Chambering: Offers a lighter-recoiling, more refined shooting experience than a 20-gauge, perfect for dove, quail, and skeet.
- Gas-Operated System: Soaks up recoil effectively, making for a softer shooting cycle that’s easy on the shoulder during long days afield.
- Turkish Walnut Stock: Provides a traditional, handsome aesthetic with good grain and finish for the price point.
- Silver-Finished Receiver: Adds a touch of distinction and contrasts nicely with the walnut and blued 26-inch barrel.
- 5-Round Capacity: Gives you that extra follow-up shot compared to many over/unders or side-by-sides in this gauge.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Chamber | 2.75″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.2 lbs |
| Capacity | 4+1 (5 total) |
| Stock | Turkish Walnut |
| Finish | Silver Receiver, Blued Barrel |
Here’s the thing—at just over six pounds, this shotgun carries like a dream through thickets and fields. That 26-inch barrel strikes a great balance between swing speed and sight plane, making it versatile for both flushing birds and crossing targets on the sporting clays course. The 28-gauge chambering is its biggest selling point for the discerning shooter; it uses less powder and shot, which translates to noticeably less recoil and muzzle blast than a 20-gauge, but it still patterns effectively at reasonable hunting distances. The gas system isn’t overly complex and shares design principles with other reliable semi-autos, meaning maintenance is straightforward. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Viper G2 is ideal for the upland hunter who covers a lot of ground and values a fast, pointable gun that won’t beat them up. It’s also a fantastic choice for a newer shooter or someone of smaller stature looking to step into semi-autos with a manageable gauge. Skeet shooters wanting to try the 28-gauge events will find it a capable entry. It’s not a waterfowl gun or a tactical tool—it’s a specialized field gun built for a specific, enjoyable type of shooting. At $597.92, it sits in a sweet spot between budget pumps and high-end semi-autos, offering gas-operated softness and auto-loader speed without a four-figure price tag.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The low-recoil 28-gauge chambering is a joy to shoot. The lightweight build and pointable barrel make it exceptionally fast in the field. The gas system works reliably with target and field loads. The walnut and silver finish offers classic good looks you don’t often see at this price.
Cons: 28-gauge ammunition is more expensive and can be harder to find locally than 12 or 20-gauge. The 5-round capacity is standard but not exceptional. As with many imported firearms, aftermarket support for parts like chokes is good but not as vast as for mainstream American brands—though it uses common Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28-gauge powerful enough for hunting?
A: Absolutely. With proper shot size and within its effective range (typically 35-40 yards), the 28-gauge is more than sufficient for dove, quail, woodcock, squirrel, and even rabbit. It’s a highly effective and efficient gauge that emphasizes shot placement and pattern over brute force.
Q: Can it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: In my experience, yes. The gas-operated action is designed to handle standard 2.75″ target loads commonly used for skeet and sporting clays. As with any semi-auto, always check the manual for minimum load recommendations, but it’s built for the light-recoiling stuff the 28-gauge is famous for.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It typically includes a set of Mobil-style choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full). This gives you the flexibility to go from open patterns for close-in upland birds to a tighter constriction for longer shots or trap. Always verify the specific package contents at purchase.
Look, if you’re after a dedicated, lightweight upland or clays gun that offers a step up in refinement from a 20-gauge, this TriStar Viper G2 in 28-gauge deserves a hard look. It combines reliable function with traditional aesthetics at a point that doesn’t break the bank. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases, as always. See the full details on our site.
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