Description
The TriStar Viper G2 Youth is a semi-automatic 20-gauge shotgun built for smaller-framed shooters. It features a 24″ barrel, a Realtree Edge camo synthetic stock, a fiber optic front bead, and comes with three chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full). It’s a right-hand model with a 5-round capacity, chambered for 3″ shells, and priced at $549.14. I’ve run a few hundred target loads and a couple boxes of heavier game loads through one, and here’s my take.
Look, youth shotguns can be a gamble—too light and they kick hard, too heavy and they’re unwieldy. The Viper G2 Youth finds a solid middle ground. The synthetic stock and forend keep the weight manageable, and the 20-gauge chambering is the perfect step up from a .410 for a young hunter or a great low-recoil option for an adult in a compact package. The 24″ barrel is a sweet spot for maneuverability in a blind or thick brush without sacrificing too much sight plane.
Key Features
- Youth-Proportioned Design: Shorter length of pull fits younger shooters or smaller adults perfectly.
- Realtree Edge Camo: Effective, durable finish that’s ready for the field right out of the box.
- Fiber Optic Bead: Picks up light for a bright, easy-to-acquire front sight.
- Complete Choke Set: Comes with IC, Mod, and Full chokes, making it versatile for everything from skeet to turkey.
- Gas-Operated System: Helps tame felt recoil, which is a big plus for developing shooters.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge/Chamber | 20 Gauge / 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 44.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.8 lbs |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds (5 Total) |
| Stock | Synthetic, Realtree Edge Camo |
Weighing in at just under six pounds, this shotgun is easy to carry all day. The gas system does a respectable job of soaking up the snap from standard target loads, and I found it cycled Federal Top Gun and Winchester AA loads without a hiccup. The included chokes use a common Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style thread pattern, so finding aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock is straightforward if you want to fine-tune your pattern.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is primarily for the new hunter—a teenager getting their first serious scattergun, or a younger shooter graduating from a single-shot. It’s also a fantastic option for any adult of smaller stature who finds standard 12-gauges too much to handle comfortably. The camo finish and choke set make it a true field-ready tool for Missouri squirrels, dove, and even turkey. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, and this model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The fit and finish for the price point are excellent. It comes with everything you need to start shooting. The recoil is manageable, which builds confidence. The fiber optic bead is a simple but highly effective upgrade over a plain brass bead.
Cons: As with many gas guns, it can be a bit finicky with very light target loads until it’s broken in. The synthetic stock, while durable, doesn’t have the adjustability of some higher-end youth models—what you see is what you get. That said, for under $550, the value is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an adult use this shotgun effectively?
A: Absolutely. While marketed as a youth model, its compact dimensions and lighter 20-gauge recoil make it a great choice for any shooter who prefers a shorter, lighter firearm, especially for upland hunting or in tight quarters.
Q: What’s the real benefit of the gas-operated system?
A: Recoil reduction. A gas gun uses some of the firing energy to cycle the action, which softens the kick felt at your shoulder. For a new shooter or someone sensitive to recoil, this can make practice and hunting much more enjoyable.
Q: Is it ready to hunt with immediately?
A: Yes, it’s drop-in ready. It comes with three chokes, so you can install the Modified for a good all-around choice for dove or rabbit right out of the case. Just add ammunition and head to the field—no gunsmithing required.
If you’re looking for a dependable, field-ready 20-gauge that won’t break the bank and is sized for a growing shooter, the TriStar Viper G2 Youth deserves a close look. Check its availability on our site.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.