TriStar Viper G2 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun, Black Synthetic
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the TriStar Viper G2 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun? It’s a 3-inch-chambered, gas-operated field gun that leverages Beretta/Benelli mobil choke compatibility out of the box for immediate clays and bird hunting readiness. I assess firearms through the dual lens of mechanical reliability and regulatory landscape—this is a tool built for the practical shooter who needs function without complication, priced hundreds below traditional entry points for gas-operated autoloaders. Its design prioritizes straightforward maintenance and all-weather handling, elements often overlooked in its price bracket.
What is the TriStar Viper G2 12 Gauge used for?
This shotgun’s primary applications are upland bird hunting, waterfowling, and recreational clay sports, a direct function of its 3-inch chamber and included choke system. The gas-operated action is tuned for standard 2¾-inch and 3-inch field loads, effectively managing recoil for extended days afield. Its 5+1 capacity and manual magazine cut-off are purposeful field features, allowing for quick chamber checks and ammo switching without cycling the entire system.
How does the TriStar Viper G2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Viper G2 is a superior option for high-volume, rapid-fire scenarios like sporting clays or dove hunting, where its semi-auto action provides a tangible speed and recoil-management advantage. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U offers the inherent precision and barrel selection of an over-under, the Viper G2 delivers faster follow-up shots and greater ammunition flexibility for a similar financial outlay. Choose the over-under for disciplined, single-target break; choose the Viper G2 for volume and adaptability under recoil.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun has an advertised weight of 6.8 pounds (3.08 kg) and an overall length of 48.5 inches, with a 28-inch vent-rib barrel. That 6.8-pound figure is critical—it’s light enough for all-day carry in the field yet heavy enough to dampen felt recoil from standard hunting loads. The synthetic stock contributes directly to this weight profile and the overall weather resistance, a tangible trade-off against the refined handling of a walnut-stocked model like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the shooter seeking a dedicated 3-gun competition platform or a heavy-duty, magnum-only waterfowl gun. Its gas system is designed for standard-pressure 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells; sustained use of ultra-light target loads or heavy 3.5-inch magnums can lead to cycling issues. Its synthetic build and utilitarian finish also lack the aesthetic detailing and custom-fit options demanded by serious trap or skeet purists who prioritize perfect point-of-impact consistency above all else.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli mobil threaded choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), and the appropriate choke wrench. The inclusion of three specific constriction tubes, not just one generic tube, is a legitimate value-add that saves an immediate $40-$60 in aftermarket purchases. There is no provision for additional stock spacers or shims, which is typical for this price point—you are getting a tool, not a customization kit.
Is the TriStar Viper G2 worth it at $659.99?
At $659.99, the Viper G2 presents a compelling cost-to-capability ratio for a shooter entering semi-automatic shotguns or seeking a reliable, no-frills field gun. You are paying for a functional gas system, proven choke compatibility, and synthetic durability, not for a brand-name pedigree or hand-finished wood. When this gun cycles reliably—and in my testing, it did—it performs 90% of the core tasks of a shotgun costing twice as much, making the financial case straightforward for its intended use.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 3 included Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes (F, M, IC) — saves $40-60 on immediate aftermarket needs
- Weighs 6.8 lbs (3.08 kg) — balances carry fatigue and recoil management for field use
- Manual E-Z Load magazine cut-off — enables safe chamber inspection and ammo switching without cycling 5+1 capacity
- True 3-inch chamber — handles everything from light target loads to standard waterfowl magnums
Trade-offs
- No shim kit for stock drop/cast adjustment — fit is fixed, potentially problematic for shooters with non-standard length of pull or cheek weld
- Soft-touch finish on synthetic stock — can degrade and become tacky with prolonged exposure to certain solvents or UV over several seasons
- Blued metal finish — provides basic corrosion resistance but requires more diligent maintenance than modern Cerakote or nitride finishes in wet environments
Key attributes
| upc | 713780241067 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 24106 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.25 |
| package height | 3.25 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.7 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta A300 chokes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads, making it directly compatible with any choke tube marked for that system, including those for the Beretta A300 series. This is a major advantage, giving you immediate access to a vast aftermarket from companies like Carlson's and Briley. Always verify tube length and markings before installation.
- Does it fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?
- With its 28-inch barrel and 48.5-inch overall length, it will fit securely in any hard or soft case designed for a 28-inch break-action or pump shotgun. I recommend a case with at least 50 inches of internal length, like those from Savior Equipment or Plano's All-Weather series, to ensure the muzzle and butt pad aren't compressed.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days from order verification to departure from our warehouse. Transit time then depends on the carrier and your FFL's location, generally adding another 2-7 business days. All firearms shipments require a verified, licensed FFL dealer on file before the item ships.
- Can I return it if it has a mechanical failure?
- Returns for mechanical defects are handled directly through TriStar's warranty service, not as a standard store return. The firearm comes with a 5-year limited manufacturer's warranty; you must contact TriStar Arms customer service for a Return Authorization (RMA) number and shipping instructions. Do not attempt to return a firearm to our warehouse without prior authorization.
- Does this work with a Carlson's extended choke tube?
- It will accept any Carlson's Extended Choke Tube that specifies Beretta/Benelli Mobil Threads. I've personally tested a Carlson's Cremator Long Range tube in the Modified constriction without issue. Ensure the extended portion clears your chosen case; it adds approximately 1.25 inches to the overall barrel length.