TriStar Cobra III 20 Gauge Pump Shotgun, 26-inch, 3-inch Chamber
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About this product
The TriStar Cobra III 20 Gauge Pump Shotgun is a 26-inch vent-rib barrel pump-action designed for practical field use with a 3-inch chamber and Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke compatibility. Manufactured as a cost-effective field and sporting platform, it balances traditional pump mechanics with modern choke interchangeability. This positions it directly against budget over/unders for shooters prioritizing reliability across varied conditions.
What is the TriStar Cobra III used for?
This is a purpose-built pump-action for field hunting, clay sports, and general-purpose recreational shooting. The 26-inch barrel with a vent rib aids in swing and target acquisition for upland game like pheasant and grouse, while the 5+1 capacity handles transitions. The included Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full choke tubes provide patterning flexibility from 18-yard skeet to 40-yard waterfowl passes, assuming proper steel shot choke use.
How does the TriStar Cobra III compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Cobra III outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting in reliability under muddy or high-round-count training scenarios by eliminating the complex hinge and ejector mechanisms of an over/under. A pump action has fewer moving parts to foul, making it superior for harsh environmental use or loaner gun duty. However, the Stevens will provide faster follow-up shots for sporting clays due to its dual-barrel design.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 6.8 pounds distributed along a 26-inch barrel with a 3-inch chamber, creating a 47.5-inch overall length. This weight-forward balance, typical of pump guns, promotes a smooth follow-through on swinging targets but adds 1.2 pounds compared to some ultralight autoloaders. The 14.25-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification, and the 1.5-inch drop at comb aids in quick sight alignment.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for competitive trap or skeet shooters who require rapid, precise second shots—a quality over/under like the Stevens 555 is mechanically faster. It’s also unsuitable for tight-quarter home defense due to the 26-inch barrel length; a 18.5-inch tactical configuration would be more appropriate. Left-handed shooters should note the right-hand-only stock and thumb safety placement.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli Mobil-thread choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a dedicated choke wrench, and a plastic choke tube storage case. It does not include a case, sling, or cleaning kit; you’ll need to budget an additional $40-$80 for a quality padded soft case and basic cleaning supplies. All choke tubes are shipped finger-tight and must be properly torqued before use.
Is the TriStar Cobra III worth it at $406.99?
At $406.99, it represents definitive value as a mechanically simple, multi-role pump-gun for a new shooter or a seasoned hunter needing a durable backup. This price undercuts most pump-actions from Mossberg and Remington by $100-$150 while delivering functional choke interchangeability. The investment is justified if your primary need is a reliable, no-frills shotgun for field use rather than competitive refinement.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.8 lb unloaded weight — balanced for swing, not fatigue
- 3 Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes included (IC, M, F) — eliminates $60+ in aftermarket purchases
- 5+1 capacity — standard for field use, matches most pump-action designs
- Fiber optic front sight — high-visibility in low-light conditions
Trade-offs
- Right-hand-only stock — no left-hand configuration available
- No included case or sling — adds $40-$100 to the effective cost
- Vent rib is matte, not high-polish — less reflective for target acquisition in bright sun
Key attributes
| upc | 713780231334 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 23133 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.25 |
| model | Cobra III Field |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 8.15 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta 686 choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses the standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern, which is identical to most Beretta over/under and Benelli autoloader shotguns. You can use any aftermarket Mobil-style choke, such as those from Carlson's or Briley, provided they are rated for steel shot if you're hunting waterfowl. The included wrench fits all standard Mobil tubes.
- Does this fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?
- No, the 47.5-inch overall length requires a case designed for a full-size shotgun, typically listed for 48-52 inch overall firearms. A standard 28-inch barrel case is for the barrel only; you need a minimum internal length of 48 inches. SKB and Plano make suitable hard cases starting at $129.99.
- How long does shipping take for firearms?
- Firearm shipments require 3-7 business days for processing and transit to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder, plus the mandatory FFL background check, which varies by state. You must coordinate with your local FFL for transfer, which can add another 1-3 days. Total in-hand time is typically 5-14 days from order placement.
- Can I return it if the fit isn't right?
- Returns for dimensional fit are generally not accepted due to federal regulations on firearm transfers; you must inspect the firearm at your FFL before completing the 4473. If there is a mechanical defect, Ironclad Armory will facilitate a warranty repair through TriStar, which typically takes 2-4 weeks. Always verify stock dimensions against your measurements before purchasing.