TriStar Cypher X O/U Shotgun — 16 Gauge 28 in
About this product
The TriStar Cypher X is an over/under shotgun engineered for versatile field and range performance. Chambered in 16 gauge with vent-rib barrels, it balances traditional handling with modern features such as internal choke tubes and a fiber-optic front sight. This 28-inch barreled over/under from the TriStar Cypher series represents a modern take on a classic mid-bore gauge, designed for shooters who want an all-around gun without the weight or recoil of a 12-gauge.
What is the TriStar Cypher X O/U Shotgun used for?
The TriStar Cypher X is primarily a versatile upland and clay target gun for the 16-gauge enthusiast. The 28-inch barrels with a 6.1 lb weight provide a smooth swing for crossing shots on game like pheasant and grouse, while the full set of five extended choke tubes allows for precise patterning from skeet stations to sporting clays. It's a solid choice for a hunter's first over/under or for a shooter who wants a dedicated 16-gauge for days when carrying a heavier 12-gauge, like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, feels like overkill.
How does the TriStar Cypher X compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting?
The TriStar Cypher X is better for the shooter specifically seeking the lighter 16-gauge platform, while the Stevens 555 is built for the more common and versatile 12-gauge market. The Cypher X weighs 6.1 lbs, which is about 0.7 lbs lighter than a comparable 12-gauge Stevens 555, making it noticeably quicker to mount and carry over a full day in the field. However, the Stevens 555 series offers a wider variety of common gauges and chamber lengths, and its walnut stock is a step above the Cypher X's fixed, checkered hardwood in terms of finish.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun has a listed weight of 6.1 lbs (approximately 2.77 kg) and an overall length of roughly 45.5 inches. The 28-inch barrels have a vent rib that is 8mm wide, and the length of pull from the trigger to the middle of the recoil pad is a standard 14.5 inches. This specific combination of weight and length creates a balance point about 2 inches forward of the hinge pin, which promotes a steady, fluid swing for wingshooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for the competition shooter needing a dedicated, high-volume trap or skeet gun with ultra-fine adjustability. While it handles clays well, its fixed stock and non-adjustable trigger lack the micro-tuning features of guns costing three times as much. It's also not ideal for someone whose primary use is waterfowl or turkey hunting with super-tight chokes and 3.5-inch shells, as the 16-gauge chamber is typically for 2.75-inch shells, limiting payload options compared to modern 12-gauge offerings. For more on selecting the right action type, see our guide on Over/Under vs. Semi-Auto for a First Shotgun.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, five extended choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK), a basic choke tube wrench, and an owner's manual. The chokes are the key value-add, providing immediate flexibility from tight Modified patterns for late-season pheasants to open Skeet tubes for close-range clays. There is no hard case included; expect a cardboard box with foam inserts for shipment and storage.
Is the TriStar Cypher X worth it at $913.99?
At just under $914, the Cypher X is worth it for a shooter committed to the 16-gauge who wants a new, reliable over/under with modern chokes. You are paying for a functional, no-frills hunting tool that works straight from the box, not for exquisite engraving or hand-fitted joints. If your budget is under $700 and you're not gauge-specific, a used Browning Citori or Beretta Silver Pigeon in 12-gauge might offer better long-term resale, but you'll forgo the convenience of a new gun warranty and the included choke set.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.1 lbs (2.77 kg) — significantly lighter than a comparable 12-gauge O/U for all-day carry.
- Includes 5 extended choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK) — provides immediate patterning flexibility worth ~$150 if bought separately.
- 28-inch vent-rib barrel with 8mm wide rib — promotes consistent sight plane for smooth target tracking.
- Tang safety — intuitive, ambidextrous operation directly under the thumb during mounting.
Trade-offs
- Fixed 14.5" LOP stock — no adjustability for fit, requiring gunsmith work for most shooters outside the average build.
- No hard case included — adds a mandatory $50+ expense for safe transport right after purchase.
- Blued finish is functional but thin — shows holster wear and handling marks quicker than a matte ceramic or nitride coating.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780331720 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 33172 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 16 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,IC,IM,M,SK Extended |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 31.5 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.9 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- What is the chamber length for 16-gauge shells?
- The chamber is for standard 2.75-inch (70mm) 16-gauge shells. Do not attempt to fire 3-inch magnum 16-gauge shells, as they will not chamber safely and could cause a catastrophic failure.
- Does it come with a hard case?
- No, it does not. The shotgun ships in a manufacturer's cardboard box with foam inserts. You will need to purchase a separate hard or soft case for transportation and storage, which typically adds $50 to $150 to your initial setup cost.
- Is the stock length of pull adjustable?
- No, it is a fixed, checkered hardwood stock with a standard 14.5-inch length of pull. For a significant alteration, a qualified gunsmith would need to cut the stock or add spacers, which is a $100-$200 service.
- Are additional choke tubes available for purchase?
- Yes, aftermarket choke tubes from brands like Carlson's or Briley are available, but you must confirm they are threaded for the specific TriStar Cypher X series. Expect to pay between $30 and $80 per tube from a retailer like Brownells or MidwayUSA.
- What is the warranty period?
- TriStar typically offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser. You must register the firearm on their website within 30 days of purchase for the warranty to be fully valid, and service is handled through their authorized repair centers.