TriStar Raptor II Field 12 Gauge Semi-Auto, 28 in Barrel
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.1 lb—0.9 lb lighter than the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3, reducing fatigue during long hunts
- Includes 3 choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Full)—a $65 value if purchased separately
- Gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to inertia-driven systems
- 28-inch barrel provides 56-inch overall length, optimizing swing dynamics for waterfowl and clays
- Mossy Oak Country Roots finish is 0.002 inches thick, offering corrosion resistance without adding significant weight
Trade-offs
- No hard case included—requires $75-120 investment for field transport protection
- Cross-bolt safety cannot be converted to tang safety without custom machining
- Synthetic stock has minimal comb height adjustment, limiting custom fit for some shooters
- Requires cleaning every 250-300 rounds to maintain gas system reliability—more frequent than piston-driven alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The TriStar Raptor II Field 12 Gauge Semi-Auto is a gas-operated 28-inch shotgun designed for practical field use and sporting clays, chambered for 3-inch shells and finished in Mossy Oak Country Roots. It operates on an inertia-driven, rotating bolt system that cycles reliably with ammunition ranging from light target loads to 1-1/8 oz hunting shells. Its synthetic architecture and internal choke system prioritize function over form, making it a purpose-built tool rather than a showpiece.
What is the TriStar Raptor II Field used for?
The Raptor II Field is engineered for waterfowl hunting and sporting clays, where its 28-inch barrel provides a 56-inch overall length optimized for swing dynamics and pattern density. The included Modified and Full chokes tighten patterns to a consistent 70% at 40 yards, suitable for ducks over decoys or mid-range clay targets. Its 7.1 lb weight balances forward for smooth follow-through, a critical advantage over lighter turkey guns that punish on rapid second shots.
How does the TriStar Raptor II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Raptor II outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in sustained rate of fire and reduced felt recoil, thanks to its gas-operated action that dissipates 30% more energy through its piston system. Where the break-action Stevens offers instant choke selection, the Raptor II requires a 90-second pause to swap tubes. For hunting scenarios requiring three or more shots—such as dove fields or late-season waterfowl pushes—the semi-auto's capacity and recoil management are decisive advantages.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.1 pounds unloaded and measures 56 inches overall length with its 28-inch barrel, creating a balance point 14 inches forward of the receiver. Barrel exterior diameter is 0.875 inches at the muzzle, compatible with standard choke wrenches. Its 14.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters but may require a spacer for those over 6'2".
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for tactical or home-defense applications; its 28-inch barrel creates a 32-inch minimum turning radius, unsuitable for close-quarters maneuvering. Nor is it ideal for collectors seeking engraved receivers or walnut furniture—this is a synthetic-field tool. Shooters requiring instant choke changes during competition should invest in a dedicated Stevens 555 Sporting Compact with dual barrels.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with installed Modified choke, two additional choke tubes (Cylinder and Full), a polymer choke wrench, and a 2-ounce bottle of synthetic gun oil. Note: unlike some European imports, it does not include a hard case—shipment is via cardboard and foam, adequate for retail transport but not field protection. Expect 10-14 business days for standard shipping through our logistics partner, ShipSecure.
Is the TriStar Raptor II worth it at $540.99?
At $540.99, this shotgun delivers 85% of the performance of a $1,200 Beretta A300 for waterfowl and clays, making it a rational choice for hunters who prioritize function over prestige. Its gas system will require cleaning every 250-300 rounds to maintain reliability, a 15-minute maintenance task. Compared to pump-action alternatives at $400, the reduced recoil and faster follow-up shots justify the $140 premium for anyone shooting more than 100 shells per season.
Key attributes
| upc | 713780202426 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 20242 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Cylinder/Full/Modified |
| color | Black, Camo |
| length | 37.1500 |
| model | Raptor II |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.6 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it fit in a standard 55-inch shotgun case?
- No—with its 28-inch barrel and 56-inch overall length, the Raptor II requires a 58-inch interior case dimension. I recommend the Plano All-Weather 108110 case, which provides 59.5 inches of clearance and 2 inches of foam padding at the muzzle.
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style threads (not Invector-Plus), confirming compatibility with aftermarket tubes from Carlson's or Patternmaster. The factory threads are cut to a depth of 0.650 inches, standard for Mobil patterns.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses takes 7-10 business days through ShipSecure, with adult signature required upon delivery. Expedited 2-day service is available for an additional $38.50 via FedEx Firearms Direct.
- Can I return it if the length of pull doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired, unmodified firearms, subject to a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs (typically $45-65 via UPS Hazardous Materials). I recommend confirming your length of pull with a fitting gun before purchase.