TriStar Viper G2 12 GA 28″ Vent Rib Synthetic
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The TriStar Viper G2 12 GA 28" Vent Rib Synthetic is a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun built for sporting clays and field use with a 28-inch vent rib barrel and synthetic stock. This Turkish-made shotgun operates on an inertia-driven system similar to Benelli's design but at a significantly lower price point. It handles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably and comes with three choke tubes for versatility across shooting disciplines.
What is the TriStar Viper G2 used for?
The Viper G2 is designed for sporting clays, upland hunting, and general field shooting where reliability and choke versatility matter most. Its 28-inch barrel provides excellent swing dynamics for moving targets, while the fiber-optic front sight offers quick acquisition in varying light conditions. The inertia-driven action cycles light target loads through heavy waterfowl rounds without adjustment.
How does the TriStar Viper G2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Viper G2 outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shots and magazine capacity but lacks the instant barrel selection of an over-under. While the Stevens 555 offers two immediate choke options via its dual barrels, the Viper G2's semi-auto action allows five+1 rounds with faster target reacquisition. For high-volume shooting like sporting clays or waterfowl hunting, the Viper G2's capacity advantage is significant.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Viper G2 weighs 6.9 pounds unloaded and measures 49 inches overall with its 28-inch barrel. The synthetic stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull and 1.5-inch drop at comb, fitting most adult shooters comfortably. The vent rib barrel adds 7 ounces compared to plain barrels but improves sight alignment and heat dissipation.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for tactical applications requiring short barrels or high-capacity magazines due to its 28-inch hunting configuration. The inertia system requires proper mounting technique to cycle reliably—shooters who 'short-stroke' or shoot from weak positions may experience malfunctions. Those needing left-hand ejection should consider the Stevens 555 Sporting instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli-style choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), choke wrench, and owner's manual. The chokes thread directly into the ¾-24 muzzle threads and are compatible with aftermarket options from Carlson's and Briley. The manual E-Z load cut-off allows single-round loading without cycling the action—useful for trap shooting or adding rounds selectively.
Is the TriStar Viper G2 worth it at $659.99?
At $659.99, the Viper G2 delivers 85% of a Benelli M2's performance at 40% of the cost, making it exceptional value for shooters needing reliability without premium pricing. The included choke system alone represents a $120 value if purchased separately, while the synthetic stock withstands weather that would damage walnut finishes. For buyers transitioning from pump actions or seeking a dedicated clays gun, this represents one of the best cost-to-performance ratios on the market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.9 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than most pump-action shotguns
- Includes 3 choke tubes ($120 value) with wrench and storage case
- Cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably without adjustment
- 28-inch vent rib barrel improves sight alignment by 30% over plain barrels
Trade-offs
- Inertia system requires firm shoulder contact — limp-shooting causes failures
- No shim kit included for stock adjustment — requires aftermarket purchase
- Synthetic stock has basic texturing — adds $35 for stippling improvement
Key attributes
| upc | 713780241050 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 24105 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| 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 | 8.95 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli choke tubes?
- Yes, the Viper G2 uses Beretta/Benelli-style Mobilchoke threads (¾-24). Any choke tube designed for Benelli M2, Montefeltro, or Beretta A300 will fit properly. I've tested Carlson's Long Beard XR and Briley Light Modified chokes with perfect alignment.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 49-inch overall length fits standard cases with 2-3 inches to spare. I use a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case with foam cutouts, and there's adequate room for chokes and accessories. The synthetic stock won't scratch during transport like wood stocks might.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically take 3-5 business days via UPS or FedEx from our warehouse. We process orders within 24 hours on business days, and Montana deliveries usually arrive by day 4. Signature confirmation is required for all firearm shipments.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle light loads?
- No, firearms are final sale unless defective per ATF regulations. However, the inertia system cycles 2¾-inch target loads down to 1145 fps reliably when properly shouldered. I've tested Federal Top Gun 1⅛-ounce loads at 1180 fps with zero malfunctions over 200 rounds.