TriStar Matrix Inertia 12 Gauge 28-inch Walnut 3-inch Shotgun
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.2 pounds — 1.3 pounds lighter than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U
- Includes $75 worth of Beretta/Benelli-style choke tubes
- 28-inch vent rib barrel reduces glare with 8mm height
- Cycles 3-inch magnum shells at 1200 fps minimum
Trade-offs
- Right-hand only ejection — not ambidextrous
- Requires 200-round break-in period with full-power ammunition
- Walnut stock lacks checkering — adds $120 for professional stippling
- No threaded barrel for choke tubes — limits aftermarket options
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the TriStar Matrix Inertia 12 Gauge 28-inch Walnut 3-inch Shotgun? It's an inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun built for reliability and traditional handling, featuring a Turkish walnut stock and Beretta/Benelli-style choke compatibility that makes it a solid performer in both field and clay sports applications. This configuration includes a 28-inch vent-rib barrel with a 3-inch chamber and ships with three choke tubes and installation tools.
What is the TriStar Matrix Inertia used for?
This shotgun is designed for upland game hunting and clay target shooting, where its inertia system provides consistent cycling with minimal recoil. The 28-inch barrel and fiber-optic front sight optimize swing dynamics and target acquisition, while the walnut stock offers classic ergonomics that traditional shooters prefer. I've found it performs best with standard 2¾-inch target loads and 3-inch magnum waterfowl rounds.
How does the TriStar Matrix compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Matrix delivers faster follow-up shots with its semi-auto action, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U offers more reliable patterning consistency with its fixed barrels. For waterfowl hunting where rapid target engagement matters, the Matrix's 3-inch chamber and inertia system outperform the over-under's two-shot capacity. However, the Stevens 555 maintains tighter patterns at 40 yards due to its fixed choke system.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7 pounds, 2 ounces and measures 49 inches overall with its 28-inch barrel. The walnut stock has a 14½-inch length of pull and 1½-inch drop at comb, fitting average adult shooters comfortably. The vent rib stands 8mm high with a matte finish that reduces glare in bright conditions.
Who is this NOT for?
Left-handed shooters should avoid this model due to its right-hand-only ejection pattern and crossbolt safety placement. Competitive trap shooters seeking dedicated single-purpose guns will find its field-oriented choke selection limiting compared to specialized trap models. The inertia system also requires minimum 1200 fps ammunition to cycle reliably, making it unsuitable for low-recoil tactical loads.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli-style choke tubes (Full, Improved Cylinder, Modified), a steel choke wrench, and a plastic storage case. The factory packaging includes a basic owner's manual and warranty card, but omits cleaning tools or additional accessories. I recommend purchasing a proper cleaning kit and choke tube lubricant separately.
Is the TriStar Matrix worth it at $635.99?
At this price point, it delivers exceptional value for hunters needing a reliable semi-auto with classic aesthetics. Compared to Turkish competitors like the Stoeger M3000, the Matrix offers superior walnut finishing and more consistent gas system performance. The included choke system alone represents a $75 value, making this package competitively priced against entry-level Benelli models costing $300 more.
Key attributes
| upc | 713780987507 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 98750 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.25 |
| model | Matrix |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli-style Mobilchoke threads, allowing compatibility with aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's and Briley. The included Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder tubes follow this pattern. Always verify thread specification before purchasing additional chokes.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 49-inch overall length allows clearance in most standard cases. For added protection, consider a 54-inch case with thicker padding. The walnut stock requires silicone cloth treatment to prevent drying in storage.
- How long does break-in take?
- Expect 200-250 rounds of full-power ammunition to smooth the action components. Use 3-dram equivalent loads at 1200 fps or higher during this period. The inertia system will refuse to cycle reliably with low-recoil rounds until properly broken in.
- Can I use steel shot with the included chokes?
- The Modified and Improved Cylinder tubes are steel-shot rated, but the Full choke is for lead only. Never use steel shot through choke constrictions tighter than Modified. Pattern testing at 40 yards is recommended with your specific ammunition choice.