TriStar Cobra III Compact 20 Gauge Pump Shotgun, 24 in Vent Rib
About this product
The TriStar Cobra III Compact is a purpose-built 20-gauge pump-action shotgun designed for youth shooters, small-framed adults, and as an entry-level field gun for upland game and sporting clays. It's configured with a 24-inch vent-rib barrel, an overall length of 38.25 inches, and a synthetic stock to manage its 5.3-pound unloaded weight. This model uses the widely compatible Beretta/Benelli Mobil Thread choke system and ships with three tubes, offering immediate flexibility for different shot patterns without requiring additional purchases.
What is the TriStar Cobra III Compact used for?
This shotgun is used primarily for youth hunting, introductory clay sports, and small-game hunting where a lighter-recoiling, shorter-stocked platform is advantageous. The 20-gauge chamber, 5+1 capacity, and included choke tubes make it suitable for squirrels, rabbits, and dove over decoys. Its 38.25-inch overall length and manageable swing weight also make it a viable starter gun for adult shooters new to shotguns or those with shorter statures who find full-size 12-gauge guns unwieldy.
How does the TriStar Cobra III Compact compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga 26″ O/U?
The TriStar Cobra III Compact is better for budget-conscious buyers and those prioritizing simple, rugged reliability, while the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact is better for dedicated clay target use and faster follow-up shots. The Stevens 555 is an over/under with a 26-inch barrel and walnut stock, offering two selectable chokes and a more traditional balance for sporting clays, but it costs approximately $250-$300 more. The TriStar's pump action is slower for a second shot but is more forgiving of debris and requires less maintenance than the Stevens' hinge mechanism.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the Cobra III Compact weighs 5.3 pounds (85 ounces), with an overall length of 38.25 inches, a barrel length of 24 inches, and a length of pull of approximately 13.5 inches. The 24-inch barrel features a standard vent rib that is 8mm wide, providing a consistent sight plane, and the magazine tube holds five 2¾-inch shells, giving it a total capacity of 5+1 rounds. These dimensions and the synthetic stock contribute to a swing weight that is noticeably faster and less fatiguing than a full-size 12-gauge pump over a 3-hour hunting walk.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for high-volume trap or skeet shooters who will fire 200+ rounds in a session, as the pump action will be slower and more physically demanding than a quality semi-auto or over/under. It is also not for waterfowl hunters needing 3½-inch chamber capability or dense pattern performance at 40+ yards, as the 20-gauge 3-inch chamber limits payload size. Serious wingshooters pursuing pheasant or turkey over varied terrain would be better served by a 12-gauge with a longer barrel and more robust aftermarket choke selection.
What's in the box?
Included in the box are the shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli Mobil Thread choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a choke tube wrench, and a plastic choke tube storage box. The gun ships with a manual and a lock, but no case is included. You will need to supply your own gun case, cleaning kit, and ammunition. All chokes are installed finger-tight from the factory, and the wrench is required for proper removal and seating to avoid carbon lock.
Is the TriStar Cobra III Compact worth it at $350.99?
At $350.99, this shotgun is worth it as a dedicated first gun for a young shooter or a reliable, no-frills field gun for small game where dings and weather exposure are concerns. You are paying for a functional, safe action, a proven choke system, and a synthetic stock that won't warp, not for fine wood or a slick, broken-in action. Compared to a used Remington 870 Express or Mossberg 500 in similar configuration, this is a competitive price for a new-in-box firearm with a warranty and no worn internals to inspect.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.3 lbs (85 oz) — 1.2 lbs lighter than a typical 12-gauge pump for less fatigue
- Includes 3 choke tubes (Full, Mod, IC) — a $40-$60 value, providing immediate pattern flexibility
- Uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil Threads — compatible with a vast aftermarket of available chokes
- 38.25-inch overall length — 4-6 inches shorter than adult field guns for better handling in brush
Trade-offs
- Pump action requires manual cycling — slower for follow-up shots vs. a semi-auto like a Stoeger M3020
- Synthetic stock has a hollow feel — lacks the solid balance and acoustics of a wood-stocked Stevens 555
- No sling swivels pre-installed — requires drilling or an aftermarket clamp-on set for carry
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780231563 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 23156 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.25 |
| model | Cobra III Field |
| package height | 3.25 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 7.835 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| youth shotgun | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes?
- Yes, the barrel uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil Threads (Mobilchoke). Any aftermarket choke tube marked for this pattern—including those from Carlson's, Trulock, or Briley—will thread in correctly. The barrel is machined for chokes up to 3 inches in length.
- Does it fit in a standard youth shotgun case?
- Yes, its 38.25-inch overall length fits in most standard 40-inch shotgun cases with room to spare. For a secure fit, look for a case with an interior length between 39 and 42 inches. A 40-inch Plano All-Weather case is a common and affordable option.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- After order processing (typically 1-2 business days), ground shipping to a licensed FFL dealer takes 3-7 business days, depending on your location relative to our warehouse. You must contact your chosen FFL in advance to provide your shipment details and arrange for transfer paperwork.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical defect?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for mechanical defects verified by our armorers within 30 days of delivery. The firearm must be unfired and in original packaging. You are responsible for shipping to our facility via an approved carrier, and we cover return shipping for verified defects. Contact support for an RMA.
- Does this work with a sidesaddle shell holder?
- It works with adhesive-backed shell holders, but not with clamp-on models designed for specific magazine tube diameters without modification. The synthetic stock has a flat, textured area suitable for a 6-shell Velcro-backed holder from brands like Mesa Tactical or Allen. Drilling and tapping for a screw-on holder is not recommended on this receiver.