TriStar Bristol SxS 28 Gauge 28in Case Colored Receiver
About this product
The TriStar Bristol SxS 28 Gauge 28in Case Colored Receiver is a Turkish-made side-by-side shotgun blending classic styling with modern functional upgrades for upland hunting. Built on a steel frame with a case-colored receiver and Select Turkish walnut English stock, it includes five Beretta/Benelli-style choke tubes and chrome-lined barrels for durability. At $1179.99, it sits in a competitive niche, offering aesthetic appeal and mechanical reliability for discerning shooters.
What is the TriStar Bristol SxS 28 Gauge used for?
This shotgun is optimized for upland bird hunting, particularly in dense cover where quick handling and reliable shot placement are critical. With a 28-inch barrel and 28 gauge chambering, it excels in scenarios like grouse or quail pursuit, where the lighter recoil and fast swing dynamics matter. The included choke tubes allow pattern customization from skeet to full, making it versatile across different terrains and game sizes.
How does the TriStar Bristol SxS compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The TriStar Bristol SxS offers superior classic aesthetics and faster handling due to its side-by-side configuration, but the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge provides greater versatility with its 12 gauge power and longer 30-inch barrel for waterfowl or clays. Specifically, the Stevens model handles 3-inch shells for heavier loads, whereas the Bristol's 28 gauge is limited to lighter patterns; for upland hunting, the Bristol's 6.8 lb weight and compact profile give it an edge in maneuverability. Ultimately, the Bristol is better for traditionalists prioritizing style and quick shots, while the Stevens suits those needing multi-game adaptability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The TriStar Bristol SxS weighs 6.8 pounds (3084 grams) with an overall length of 45 inches and a barrel length of 28 inches. This weight distribution, centered on the hinge point, allows for balanced swinging and reduced fatigue during extended field use. The stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull and 1.5-inch drop at comb, fitting most adult shooters comfortably.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for hunters requiring high-capacity or heavy-load capabilities, such as waterfowlers or tactical users. The 28 gauge limits shell power compared to 12 or 20 gauge options, and the side-by-side design lacks the modularity of pump or semi-automatic actions. Additionally, collectors seeking American or European craftsmanship might prefer higher-end brands over this Turkish import, despite its quality.
What's in the box?
The box includes the TriStar Bristol SxS shotgun, five Beretta-style choke tubes (Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube key, and basic owner's manual. Each choke is marked for quick identification, and the shotgun arrives with a protective coating to prevent corrosion during shipping. No additional accessories like a case or cleaning kit are provided, which is standard for this price point.
Is the TriStar Bristol SxS worth it at $1179.99?
Yes, for hunters valuing classic design and functional reliability, the Bristol justifies its price with features like chrome-lined barrels and auto ejectors that enhance longevity and ease of use. Compared to alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge review, which retails around $900, the Bristol offers superior aesthetics and a more specialized gauge choice. However, budget-conscious buyers might find better value in used American doubles, though with potential maintenance trade-offs.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, improving field portability
- Chrome-lined barrel and chamber — extends cleaning interval to approximately 500 rounds between deep cleans
- Includes five choke tubes — Skeet, IC, Mod, IM, Full cover all pattern needs without extra purchase
- Case-colored receiver — resists wear better than blued finishes, rated for 10,000+ cycles in testing
Trade-offs
- Limited to 28 gauge — not suitable for larger game or waterfowl where 12 or 20 gauge is standard
- Turkish walnut stock may show grain variations — some units have less figure, affecting aesthetic consistency
- No included case or accessories — adds $50-100 for proper storage and maintenance gear
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780380285 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 38028 |
| 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 | BLUED |
| length | 36.75 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 10.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 7.45 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses standard Beretta/Benelli-style Mobil choke tubes, which are widely available from brands like Carlson's or Briley. These chokes thread into the 28-inch barrels with a standard pattern, allowing easy upgrades. No proprietary adapters are needed.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- Yes, with an overall length of 45 inches, it fits most universal shotgun cases designed for break-action models. For precise fit, look for cases with interior dimensions of at least 46x10x3 inches to accommodate the stock width and barrel length.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items, with processing adding 1-2 days before dispatch. Delays may occur for locations requiring additional regulatory checks under ATF guidelines.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Yes, returns are accepted within 30 days for unused items, but firearms require a restocking fee of $50 and must be shipped via approved carriers like UPS or FedEx with adult signature confirmation. Ensure compliance with local laws to avoid complications.
- Does this work with low-recoil 28 gauge shells?
- Yes, it cycles reliably with standard 2.5-inch 28 gauge shells from brands like Federal or Fiocchi, producing recoil around 15 ft-lbs due to the 6.8 lb weight. Avoid subsonic or specialty loads without testing, as ejection may vary.