TriStar Phoenix SxS 12 Gauge, 28 in, Walnut/Case Color
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The TriStar Phoenix SxS 12 Gauge, 28 in, Walnut/Case Color is a Turkish-made side-by-side shotgun designed for traditionalist shooters who demand classic aesthetics paired with modern choke versatility. It bridges the gap between purely decorative wall-hangers and purely functional field guns, offering genuine walnut, genuine case hardening, and five choke tubes at a price point that doesn't require a second mortgage on the safe. I've broken down hundreds of break-actions over my career; this one occupies a specific and well-executed niche.
What is the TriStar Phoenix SxS used for?
The Phoenix is engineered for upland bird hunting and casual clay target sports where its 28-inch barrel length provides a smooth, deliberate swing. The five included choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet) allow for pattern tuning from dense timber grouse to open-field pheasant, though the 7.8-pound weight makes it less ideal for all-day carries across steep mountain terrain compared to a lighter over-under like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact. The fixed, non-selective single trigger and manual safety keep the operation simple and reliable under field conditions.
How does the TriStar Phoenix compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Phoenix offers more classic aesthetics and a lower price point but lacks the mechanical sophistication of the Stevens over-under. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U (found here) uses a single selective trigger and automatic safety reset, the Phoenix employs a fixed, non-selective trigger and a manual tang safety that must be re-engaged by the shooter after opening the action. The Phoenix is better for the shooter who values traditional side-by-side handling and classic case-colored looks, while the Stevens is better for the shooter who prioritizes faster follow-up shot potential and modern convenience features.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Phoenix has an overall length of 45.5 inches, a 28-inch barrel length, and a weight of 7.8 pounds unloaded. The length of pull measures 14.5 inches with a 1.5-inch drop at comb and a 2.25-inch drop at heel, fitting most adult shooters comfortably. The 3-inch chamber accepts all standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells, providing versatility across light target loads and heavier waterfowl or turkey loads.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for competitive trap or skeet shooters who require a dedicated, single-purpose target gun with adjustable combs and premium triggers. The fixed, non-selective trigger and manual safety are too slow for rapid string shooting in registered events. It's also not for the budget-conscious waterfowler who plans to abuse a gun in a salt marsh; the glossy walnut and case coloring, while beautiful, will show wear and require more maintenance than a dipped camo synthetic finish.
What's in the box?
The box contains the assembled shotgun, five internal choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet), a choke tube wrench, and an owner's manual. TriStar does not include a hard case; you'll need to supply your own for transport, which adds approximately $75-$150 to the total cost of ownership for proper protection.
Is the TriStar Phoenix worth it at $761.99?
At $761.99, the Phoenix represents strong value for a shooter seeking authentic classic aesthetics without the $2,500+ price tag of an American or British-made double. You're paying for real walnut and real case coloring, not wood laminate and chemical case-print finishes found on guns costing $150 less. The inclusion of five choke tubes is a $90-$120 value if purchased separately. For the hunter or clays shooter who appreciates tradition and doesn't need a competition-ready trigger, the price is justified.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Includes five choke tubes (Full, Mod, IM, IC, Skeet) — a $120 value purchased separately
- Real Turkish walnut stock with classic English straight grip — not laminated or synthetic
- Authentic case-colored receiver — not a chemical print or fake finish
- 3-inch chamber accepts all standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge loads
Trade-offs
- Manual tang safety requires re-engagement after each break-open — slower than automatic reset systems
- Fixed, non-selective single trigger — no option for trigger or barrel selection like on O/Us
- No hard case included — adds $75-$150 to total cost for proper transport protection
- Gloss walnut and case coloring show field wear more readily than matte or synthetic finishes
Key attributes
| upc | 713780380025 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 38002 |
| action | Side By Side |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Improved Mod/Modified/Skeet |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 36.75 |
| model | Phoenix |
| package height | 2.6 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.0 |
| sights | Bead Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2.75-inch shells?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber is designed to safely fire both standard 2.75-inch and magnum 3-inch 12-gauge shells without issue. Always confirm your ammunition's length stamped on the shell base before loading.
- Does it come with a hard case?
- No, TriStar ships the Phoenix in a cardboard box with foam inserts only. You will need to purchase a separate hard case from brands like Plano or Pelican for secure transport, which typically costs between $75 and $150.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearm shipments typically take 7-10 business days to process and ship to your selected FFL dealer after order verification and compliance checks are complete. Your FFL will then contact you for pickup, which may add another 1-3 days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms are generally non-returnable due to federal regulations once the transfer is completed at your FFL. We recommend verifying the 14.5-inch length of pull and handling a similar SxS at a local dealer before purchasing to ensure proper fit.