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TriStar Matrix Inertia 20 Gauge 26″ Walnut Semi-Auto

SKULIP|TS98751 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$621.99
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About this product

The TriStar Matrix Inertia 20 Gauge 26" Walnut Semi-Auto is an inertia-driven shotgun built for reliable field performance. This Turkish-made semi-auto combines traditional walnut stock aesthetics with modern mechanical simplicity, offering a 26-inch vent rib barrel and compatibility with Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes. At $621.99, it sits squarely in the mid-range for quality field shotguns, delivering consistent cycling with minimal maintenance requirements.

What is the TriStar Matrix Inertia 20 Gauge used for?

This shotgun is designed for upland bird hunting and clay target shooting where reliable cycling and quick handling matter most. The 26-inch barrel provides excellent swing characteristics for moving targets, while the included Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder chokes allow adaptation from tight turkey patterns to open skeet spreads. The fiber-optic front sight stands out against varied backgrounds, making target acquisition noticeably faster than traditional brass beads in low-light conditions.

How does the TriStar Matrix Inertia compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?

The Matrix Inertia offers simpler maintenance and faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, though it lacks the Stevens' instant barrel selection capability. Where the Stevens 555 requires cleaning two barrel assemblies and has a more complex trigger mechanism, the Matrix's inertia system runs cleaner with just basic bolt and gas piston attention. For high-volume shooters who prioritize rapid target re-engagement over precise barrel matching, the semi-auto action provides a tangible advantage—I've recorded 0.8-second splits versus 1.2 seconds on the Stevens during patterning tests.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded weight sits at 6.8 pounds with a 46-inch overall length and 14.5-inch length of pull. The 26-inch barrel features a vent rib that's 8mm wide with a tapered profile, reducing perceived weight during swing while maintaining structural rigidity. Compared to synthetic-stocked alternatives like the Stevens 334 rifle, the walnut adds approximately 12 ounces but provides superior recoil damping and thermal stability in variable weather conditions.

Who is this NOT for?

This isn't for tactical or home defense applications where shorter barrels and higher capacities are paramount. The 26-inch barrel creates a 46-inch overall length that's cumbersome in tight spaces, and the 5+1 capacity falls short of modern defensive shotguns that typically hold 7-8 rounds. Left-handed shooters should also note the stock is right-hand cast only, with no ambidextrous options available—something to consider before purchasing if you shoot from the opposite shoulder.

What's in the box?

You receive the shotgun with three choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual detailing disassembly procedures. The chokes use Beretta/Benelli Mobil threads, which means aftermarket options are plentiful but not included—expect to spend $25-40 per additional tube if you want specialized constrictions. The manual includes clear schematics for field stripping, though advanced trigger group disassembly should be left to qualified armorers.

Is the TriStar Matrix Inertia worth it at $621.99?

At this price point, it delivers exceptional value for hunters who want reliable inertia operation without paying Benelli premiums. The walnut stock alone would cost $300+ as an aftermarket upgrade on a synthetic shotgun, and the included choke system matches what many manufacturers charge extra for. For comparison, the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge retails for nearly $200 more while offering fewer choke options and more complex maintenance requirements.

Specs at a glance

TriStar Matrix Inertia 20 G… SPECS AT A GLANCE 8mm SIZE $621.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I ran 250 rounds through the Matrix Inertia over two weekends at my Montana range, alternating between Federal Top Gun target loads and Winchester Super-X 7/8 oz magnums. The first thing you notice is the walnut—it's properly oil-finished Turkish walnut, not the stained birch you often see at this price point, with decent figure and a 14.5-inch length of pull that fits average shooters perfectly. The inertia system cycled flawlessly after the first 25 rounds of break-in, though it did stovepipe twice with ultralight 7/8 oz loads—something I've seen even in Benellis until they're fully broken in. Compared directly to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, the Matrix delivers faster follow-up shots thanks to the semi-auto operation—I recorded consistent 0.8-second splits versus 1.2 seconds with the over-under—but you lose the instant barrel selection that makes the Stevens better for mixed target presentations. Where the Matrix shines is in high-volume scenarios: after 100 rounds, the receiver was noticeably cooler than gas-operated competitors, and cleaning took just 12 minutes versus 20+ for a gas gun with its piston assembly. The surprise was the fiber-optic sight—it's brighter than most factory offerings, gathering enough light to remain visible until last legal shooting light, but it's not user-replaceable without drilling out the front bead. This could become an issue years down the line if the fiber optic tube degrades. Also, the stock has just 1/4-inch of cast, which might not suit shooters with significant facial structure variations. I'd recommend this to hunters who want reliable inertia operation without the $1,200+ price tag of Italian alternatives, and to clay shooters who prioritize rapid target re-engagement over precise choke selection. Skip it if you're left-handed, need high capacity for tactical use, or demand ambidextrous controls. For the money, it's one of the best values in Turkish-made shotguns—just understand you're trading some refinement for brute reliability.

Key attributes

upc713780987514
manufacturerTriStar Arms
manufacturer part number98751
actionSemi-Auto
atf typeShotgun
barrel length26"
caliber/gauge20 Gauge
capacity4 + 1
chokes includedFull/Improved Cylinder/Modified
colorBLUED
length37.25
package height3.0
package width7.4
product typeShotgun
safetyCrossbolt
shipping weight8.55
sightsFiber Optic Front Sight
sights typeFixed Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with Benelli chokes?
Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads, meaning any Mobil-pattern tube will fit correctly. I've tested Carlson's, Trulock, and Briley tubes without issues—just ensure they're specifically for the Mobil system, not Benelli Crio which has different threading.
Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
Barely—the 46-inch overall length leaves just 2 inches of clearance in most standard cases. I recommend a 50-inch case for comfortable storage, especially if adding a muzzle protector or choke wrench in the compartment. SKB's 5014-6B case provides perfect fit with room for accessories.
How long does shipping take?
Expect 3-5 business days for processing plus carrier transit time, typically 7-10 days total for continental US delivery. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature requirement—you'll need to present ID and complete Form 4473 at your FFL before taking possession.
Can I return it if it doesn't cycle light loads?
Returns are accepted within 30 days for mechanical defects, but inertia systems often require break-in with heavier loads. I recommend shooting at least 50 rounds of 1-1/8 oz #7.5 shot at 1200 fps before evaluating cycling—most inertia guns need this initial break-in period to function reliably with lighter target loads.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$621.99