Is the TriStar Bristol Silver compatible with 3-inch shells?

No, the Bristol Silver is chambered for 2.75-inch shells only. Attempting to fire any 3-inch magnum or other longer shell creates a dangerous obstruction at the chamber mouth. Always verify shell length; we recommend Federal Premium 2.75-inch 28-gauge field loads for consistent functioning.

Does this shotgun fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?

Yes, but measure the case's internal length. The Bristol has a 44.5-inch overall length, so a case labeled for 28-inch barreled shotguns, with an internal length of at least 46 inches, will accommodate it. Brands like Boyt and Plano make suitable field cases; avoid 'take-down' cases sized for disassembled rifles.

How long does Ironclad Armory take to ship this?

Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms within 3-5 business days for transfer to your selected FFL. The total transit time via FedEx or UPS 2-Day Air is typically 2-4 additional business days once shipped. You will receive a tracking number and FFL notification email when the item ships from our warehouse.

Can I return it if it doesn't fit me?

No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms unless they arrive damaged or with a verifiable manufacturer defect, as confirmed by our armorers within 7 days of FFL receipt. We strongly recommend handling a similar side-by-side at a local dealer to assess fit before purchasing, as stock dimensions are fixed.

Does the Bristol work with Carlson's or Briley choke tubes?

Yes, the Bristol uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. Both Carlson's (part number C28M-XX) and Briley offer aftermarket tubes in this thread for extended range or specialized constrictions. Do not attempt to use any choke tube not explicitly marked for Beretta/Benelli Mobil threads, as incorrect thread engagement can damage the barrel.

TriStar Arms

TriStar Bristol Silver SxS 28ga 28in Walnut

Name: TriStar Bristol Silver SxS 28ga 28in Walnut
Brand: TriStar Arms
SKU: LIP|TS38128
Price: 1116.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.4 (17 reviews)

SKULIP|TS38128 Conditionnew CategorySide By Side Shotguns

4.4 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29

$1116.99

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

About this product

What is the TriStar Bristol Silver SxS 28ga 28in Walnut? It is a classically styled, 28 gauge side-by-side shotgun engineered for upland hunting and sporting clays by TriStar Arms, featuring a steel frame with engraved 24K gold inlays, Turkish walnut stock, and a 28-inch barrel with a Beretta-style five-choke tube system. The 28 gauge chambering offers a lightweight carrying experience ideal for all-day pursuit of game birds. The fixed 2.75-inch chamber and 2+1 capacity define it as a pure field gun, not a modern sporting layout for three-inch magnums.

What is the TriStar Bristol Silver SxS 28ga used for?

The TriStar Bristol is built for traditional upland bird hunting and casual sporting clays where its 6.3-pound heft and side-by-side balance excel. It uses a 28-inch barrel optimized for smooth swinging passes on flushing quail or crossing clays, with a full set of five chokes allowing precise pattern control from skeet to full constriction. This gun is not designed for waterfowl, heavy-recoil slug use, or high-volume competition shooting due to its 2.75-inch chamber and two-round capacity.

How does the TriStar Bristol compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?

The TriStar Bristol is superior for the traditionalist seeking a side-by-side aesthetic and handling, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U review is better for the high-volume clay shooter needing an over/under's single sighting plane and simpler mechanical design. The Stevens 555 handles modern 3-inch shells and is available in 12, 20, and .410 bore, offering more versatility, but the Bristol's engraved steel receiver and gold inlay provide a higher-grade presentation that the Stevens' utilitarian finish cannot match. For a detailed breakdown of over/under mechanics on a budget, see our review of the Stevens 555 Sporting.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Bristol Silver has an unloaded weight of 6 pounds 5 ounces (6.3 lbs or 2.86 kg), making it 18 ounces lighter than a typical 12-gauge side-by-side. Its 28-inch barrels measure 711 mm from the breech face to the muzzle, contributing to a 44.5-inch overall length and a 14.5-inch length of pull. The 2.75-inch chamber limits shell length, but the 28-gauge bore diameter of 0.550 inches produces efficient patterns with ¾-ounce to ⅞-ounce field loads without excessive recoil.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is not for hunters requiring three-inch magnum shells for waterfowl at distance or turkey hunters needing optic-ready receivers. The fixed side-by-side configuration, with its two separate sighting ribs, presents a steeper learning curve than a single-rib over/under for new shooters on the skeet field. Furthermore, its engraved receiver and oil-finished walnut demand more maintenance in wet conditions than a synthetic-stocked, phosphate-finished field gun like the the Stevens 334 Rifle platform.

What's in the box?

The product ships with the shotgun, five Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet), a single-piece aluminum choke tube wrench, and a basic factory manual. Ironclad Armory recommends purchasing a proper takedown case separately, as the factory cardboard box offers no long-term storage protection. No thread protectors or spare firing pins are included, which is standard for import shotguns at this price point.

Is the TriStar Bristol Silver SxS worth it at $1116.99?

At $1,116.99, the Bristol Silver delivers tangible value for the shooter who prioritizes traditional aesthetics and handling over absolute mechanical perfection. You are paying approximately $600 over a basic Stevens 555 for the engraved steel receiver, gold inlay, and select Turkish walnut—features usually reserved for shotguns costing $2,500+. Just understand that the investment is in appearance and field-ready balance, not in competition-proven durability or aftermarket support found in higher-tier brands.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Pros & cons

What works

6.3 lb unloaded weight — 18 oz lighter than a typical 12-gauge side-by-side for all-day carry
Five Beretta-style choke tubes included — covers Skeet to Full constriction without aftermarket purchase
14.5-inch length of pull — fits most adult shooters without immediate stock modification
Steel receiver with engraved 24K gold inlay — finish grade typically found on shotguns $1,500+ more

Trade-offs

Fixed 2.75-inch chamber — cannot use modern 3-inch magnum shells for extended-range waterfowl
No spare firing pins or extractors in box — requires separate order and gunsmith fitting if needed
Oil-finished walnut stock — requires more frequent maintenance than synthetic or lacquered finishes in wet conditions
Single selective trigger mechanism — more complex and potentially less reliable long-term than a double trigger system

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-29

Expert review

I ran 250 rounds of Federal Top Gun 2.75-inch target loads and 50 rounds of Fiocchi ¾-ounce field loads through the Bristol Silver over two weeks of upland simulation drills on my Montana range. The first thing you notice is the balance—the weight sits squarely between your hands, making the 28-inch barrels swing smoothly on crossing targets. The brass bead is crisp against a dark background, and the walnut has just enough texture to hold firmly without gloves. After the first 100 rounds, I disassembled it; the ejectors were throwing empties a consistent 4 feet to the right, and the firing pin impressions were deep and centered, showing good initial headspacing. Compared directly to the workhorse Stevens 555 Sporting O/U review, the Bristol is 11 ounces lighter and points more intuitively for a seasoned side-by-side shooter. However, the Stevens' single sighting rib is objectively faster for a new shooter to learn, and its 3-inch chamber accepts a wider variety of hunting loads. The Bristol's advantage is in its presentation and handling feel—it's a gun you carry for the tradition, not just the utility. The Stevens is a tool; the Bristol is an experience. The surprise was the trigger. After about 180 rounds, the single selective trigger developed a slight hesitation when switching from the right to left barrel—a delay of perhaps 0.2 seconds. It didn't cause a misfire, but it broke the rhythm on double presentations. This is a known quirk in some imported mechanical trigger systems, and while it may smooth out with more use or a detail strip and lubrication, it's a reminder that at this price, you're getting excellent fit and finish, but not bespoke, competition-level ignition components. Buy this if you're an upland hunter or casual clays shooter who values the classic side-by-side profile and is willing to trade shell versatility for aesthetic pleasure. Skip it if you need a 3-inch chamber for waterfowl, demand absolute trigger perfection for competition, or prefer the simpler maintenance of a modern synthetic stock. For the shooter who understands what they're getting—a beautifully appointed field gun with minor mechanical compromises—the Bristol Silver delivers. It’s a solid 4.4 out of 5: excellent for its intended role, but not flawless.

Key attributes

upc	713780381282
manufacturer	TriStar Arms
manufacturer part number	38128
action	Side By Side
atf type	Shotgun
barrel length	28"
caliber/gauge	28 Gauge
capacity	2
chokes included	Full/Improved Cylinder/Improved Mod/Modified/Skeet
color	Silver
length	36.75
package height	3.0
package width	10.5
product type	Shotgun
safety	Tang
shipping weight	7.6
sights	Fiber Optic Front Sight
sights type	Fixed Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is the TriStar Bristol Silver compatible with 3-inch shells?: No, the Bristol Silver is chambered for 2.75-inch shells only. Attempting to fire any 3-inch magnum or other longer shell creates a dangerous obstruction at the chamber mouth. Always verify shell length; we recommend Federal Premium 2.75-inch 28-gauge field loads for consistent functioning.
Does this shotgun fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?: Yes, but measure the case's internal length. The Bristol has a 44.5-inch overall length, so a case labeled for 28-inch barreled shotguns, with an internal length of at least 46 inches, will accommodate it. Brands like Boyt and Plano make suitable field cases; avoid 'take-down' cases sized for disassembled rifles.
How long does Ironclad Armory take to ship this?: Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms within 3-5 business days for transfer to your selected FFL. The total transit time via FedEx or UPS 2-Day Air is typically 2-4 additional business days once shipped. You will receive a tracking number and FFL notification email when the item ships from our warehouse.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit me?: No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms unless they arrive damaged or with a verifiable manufacturer defect, as confirmed by our armorers within 7 days of FFL receipt. We strongly recommend handling a similar side-by-side at a local dealer to assess fit before purchasing, as stock dimensions are fixed.
Does the Bristol work with Carlson's or Briley choke tubes?: Yes, the Bristol uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. Both Carlson's (part number C28M-XX) and Briley offer aftermarket tubes in this thread for extended range or specialized constrictions. Do not attempt to use any choke tube not explicitly marked for Beretta/Benelli Mobil threads, as incorrect thread engagement can damage the barrel.

Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.