TriStar Raptor II Field Compact 20 Gauge 24″
Pros & cons
What works
- Gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30% compared to a fixed-breech shotgun firing the same 7/8-ounce target load.
- Weighs 5.8 lb (2,630 g) — 1.2 lb lighter than a typical wood-stocked 20 gauge over-under of similar barrel length.
- Includes 3 choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Full) providing immediate pattern versatility from 20 to 40 yards.
- 13.5-inch length-of-pull fits shooters with a 28-inch sleeve length without aftermarket modification.
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock is not adjustable for length or cast—requires aftermarket spacers or replacement for precise fit.
- Limited 1-year manufacturer warranty is shorter than the lifetime coverage offered by brands like Stevens on their 555 series.
- No included sling swivel studs—requires drilling and tapping or an aftermarket clamp-on kit for field carry.
- Maximum 3-inch chamber excludes heavy 3.5-inch waterfowl loads used in dedicated hunting shotguns.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The TriStar Raptor II Field Compact is a semi-automatic 20 gauge shotgun with a 24-inch barrel designed specifically for younger shooters and compact-field applications, built around a gas-operated action that cycles reliably with standard 2¾-inch target loads while accepting 3-inch hunting shells. This configuration prioritizes reduced felt recoil and manageable length-of-pull for developing shooters, not maximum velocity or magazine capacity. It ships from Ironclad Armory with a fixed black synthetic stock, a red fiber-optic front sight, and a CT-3 choke tube set (Cylinder, Modified, Full) providing immediate versatility for different shooting disciplines.
What is the TriStar Raptor II Field Compact used for?
The Raptor II Field Compact is used for introducing novice or youth shooters to semi-automatic shotguns in hunting and recreational clay target scenarios, primarily with light 2¾-inch target loads. Its 24-inch barrel with ventilated rib balances quick swing dynamics for field shots on upland game like grouse or rabbits with enough sight plane stability for basic trap or skeet. The included choke tubes let a new shooter experiment with pattern density from 20 yards (Cylinder) to 40 yards (Full) without additional investment.
How does the TriStar Raptor II Field Compact compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga 26″ O/U?
The TriStar Raptor II is better for reducing initial cost and felt recoil for a new shooter, while the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact offers superior long-term durability and instant barrel selection. The TriStar's gas-operated semi-auto action absorbs more recoil energy, making extended practice sessions with 7/8-ounce target loads less punishing over an afternoon than the over-under's fixed breech. However, the Stevens 555's dual-barrel, break-action design provides immediate access for cleaning and eliminates any cycling reliability concerns, making it a better choice for formal clay target programs where immediate barrel choke changes are required.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 5.8 pounds (2,630 grams) unloaded and measures 42.5 inches in overall length with the 24-inch barrel attached. The length-of-pull from the trigger to the end of the synthetic stock is 13.5 inches, approximately 1.5 inches shorter than a standard adult field stock like those found on the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. This compact dimension, combined with the lightweight synthetic construction, creates a handling profile that a shooter with a 28-inch sleeve length can manage comfortably from a standing position.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for competitive trap or skeet shooters requiring multiple choke constrictions per round or waterfowl hunters needing a 3.5-inch chamber for heavy steel shot. The 3-inch chamber limits maximum payload compared to dedicated waterfowl guns, and the single-barrel, semi-auto design cannot match the instant choice of choke provided by an over-under like the Stevens 555 for formal clay games. It's also not ideal for home defense, as the 24-inch barrel is cumbersome for indoor maneuvering compared to an 18.5-inch cylinder-bore shotgun.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun with the fixed synthetic stock installed, the 24-inch vent-rib barrel, and three Briley-compatible CT-3 choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Full) with a hex wrench. The package includes an owner's manual covering basic field-stripping for cleaning and a limited one-year warranty from TriStar covering defects in materials and workmanship, which Ironclad Armory processes directly to expedite service compared to retail channel returns.
Is the TriStar Raptor II Field Compact worth it at $457.99?
At $457.99, this shotgun is worth it as a dedicated introductory tool where low initial cost and reduced recoil are the primary objectives, saving roughly $300 over a comparable new over-under. The investment covers a reliable gas-operated action, a versatile three-choke system, and synthetic components that won't degrade with exposure to field moisture, eliminating the worry of damaging a wood stock. For a shooter likely to advance to more specialized disciplines within 2-3 years, this represents a sensible cost of entry before upgrading to a platform like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact for competitive use.
Key attributes
| upc | 713780202266 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 20226 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Cylinder/Full/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.2500 |
| model | Raptor II |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 7.7 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| youth shotgun | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 20 gauge choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses the industry-standard Briley Invector-style choke tubes with external threads. The included CT-3 (Cylinder, Modified, Full) set are 2.5 inches long, and aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's or Trulock will thread directly into the barrel's choke recess. Always confirm the tube is marked 'Invector' or 'Briley-compatible' before purchase.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 42.5-inch overall length fits easily into any standard 48-inch or longer hard or soft shotgun case with room for accessories. For reference, a Plano All-Weather 52-inch double case can hold this shotgun and a box of 25 shells with space remaining. Measure your existing case's interior to confirm it exceeds 43 inches for safe storage.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 1 business day, and ground shipping to most continental US FFL dealers takes 3-7 business days after processing. You must provide your chosen FFL's license to Ironclad before the firearm ships. Delays can occur if your FFL does not respond to the license verification email within 48 hours.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my ammo?
- Firearms are non-returnable after transfer due to federal law, but Ironclad Armory will facilitate a warranty repair if there is a mechanical defect. First, ensure you are using 2¾-inch shells with at least 7/8 ounce of shot and 1200 fps velocity—the minimum recommended for reliable gas operation. Persistent issues are handled under TriStar's 1-year warranty through our service desk.
- Does this work with a limbsaver recoil pad?
- The fixed synthetic stock does not have a removable buttpad for direct replacement, but a slip-on Limbsaver Model 10011 (Size Small) designed for shotgun stocks with a 4.5-inch width will fit. This adds approximately 0.75 inches to the length-of-pull, which may be acceptable for a growing shooter but eliminates the compact design intent.