TriStar Viper G2 Synthetic 20ga 26in Vent Rib 3in Chamber
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The TriStar Viper G2 Synthetic 20ga is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun built for hunters who demand reliable functionality under varied conditions without the cost of a premium European action. It offers a versatile 3-inch chamber and 26-inch vent-rib barrel with matted sight plane, delivering a focused, point-and-shoot experience that excels in upland and small game scenarios. This specific configuration prioritizes swing and pointability for moving targets over pure capacity or defense readiness.
What is the TriStar Viper G2 Synthetic 20ga used for?
The Viper G2 Synthetic is built for upland bird hunting and casual clays shooting. Its 6.1-pound weight and 40.25-inch overall length make it point-naturally in thick cover, while the gas system effectively cycles a wide range of 2¾-inch and 3-inch target and field loads with reduced felt recoil. I recommend it for pheasant, grouse, or dove hunters who want a reliable, lightweight semi-auto that won't punish you on long walks.
How does the TriStar Viper G2 Synthetic compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge O/U?
The Viper G2 offers faster follow-up shots and simpler manual of arms than the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge O/U, which is better for dedicated clay target disciplines demanding consistent barrel alignment. The gas-operated semi-auto action of the Viper G2 provides softer recoil management for extended range sessions, while the Stevens over/under delivers instant choke selection and superior balance for swinging through true pairs. For a hunter facing mixed game and unpredictable shots, the Viper G2's 5+1 capacity and cycling versatility are definitive advantages.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.1 lbs (approximately 97.6 oz) with an overall length of 40.25 inches from buttpad to muzzle. The 26-inch barrel features a standard vent rib that measures 8mm wide with a matted sight plane to reduce glare, and the chamber is precisely machined to 3.000 inches maximum cartridge length. The length of pull measures 14.25 inches, which fits most adult shooters comfortably without requiring an aftermarket stock.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not a dedicated 3-gun competition platform or a serious waterfowl rig. The synthetic stock lacks significant weatherproofing textures for a gloved grip in freezing marsh conditions, and the gas system, while reliable, isn't designed for sustained high-volume firing of 3-inch magnum steel shot loads exceeding 1¼ ounces. For heavy waterfowl loads, a dedicated 12-gauge like the Stevens 334 Rifle platform would be a more durable investment. The Viper G2 is also not for those seeking custom aftermarket support—the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern is common, but stock and forend options are limited.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with one flush-mounted Modified choke tube installed, plus two additional Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style tubes (Full and Improved Cylinder), a steel choke wrench, and a plastic choke tube storage box. The factory packaging includes a basic owner's manual and a single, non-locking 5-round magazine tube plug for compliance in migratory bird regions. No case, sling, or additional sights are included—plan for another $40-$80 in essential field accessories.
Is the TriStar Viper G2 Synthetic worth it at $659.99?
Yes, at $659.99, it represents a solid value for a gas-operated 20-gauge semi-auto with proven choke compatibility. The investment gets you a reliable field gun that will cycle light 7/8-ounce target loads up to standard 1-ounce hunting loads without adjustment, saving you the $200-$300 premium of a more famous Turkish or Italian nameplate. For a shooter entering semi-automatic shotguns or seeking a dedicated, lightweight game getter, this price point delivers mechanical competence without frills.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.1 lbs — nearly 1.5 lbs lighter than many 12-gauge semi-autos for all-day carry.
- Includes 3 Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes (F, IC, M) — a $45 value over bare-bones competitors.
- Gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30-40% compared to inertia-driven systems firing equivalent loads.
- 5+1 capacity provides one extra round over most double-barrel configurations for opportunistic follow-up shots.
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks texturing or checkering — requires a DIY grip tape or stippling job for secure handling in wet conditions.
- No included case or sling swivels — adds minimum $35-60 to initial cost for basic field readiness.
- Limited aftermarket support for stocks and forends compared to Mossberg 500 or Remington 870 platforms.
- Fiber optic sight is not tritium — useless in low-light dawn/dusk conditions without an attached light.
Key attributes
| upc | 713780241081 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 24108 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 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 | 8.25 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Are the choke tubes compatible with Beretta or Benelli shotguns?
- Yes, they use the Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style thread pattern. This is one of the most common choke systems, so you can use aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's, Briley, or Patternmaster directly. The included wrench fits any standard Mobil-style tube.
- Does it come with a case or sling?
- No, the factory packaging does not include a case, sling, or swivels. You will need to purchase these separately. I recommend a simple nylon 42-inch sling and Uncle Mike's QD swivels, which will add approximately $35 to your initial setup cost.
- Can it fire 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably?
- Yes, the gas system is designed to cycle both 2¾-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells without manual adjustment. For reliable cycling with light 7/8-ounce target loads, ensure the gas piston and rings are clean—fouling after 250-300 rounds can cause short-stroking with the lightest loads.
- What is the thread pattern for the choke tubes?
- The barrel uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. This is a standard thread with an external notch for the included wrench. The threads are cut to a depth of 0.650 inches and accept any aftermarket Mobil-style choke marked for 20-gauge.
- What is the length of pull?
- The fixed synthetic stock has a length of pull measuring 14.25 inches from the trigger to the center of the recoil pad. This is a standard adult dimension; for a custom fit, you would need to purchase an aftermarket stock or add a recoil pad spacer, which is not a simple drop-in procedure on this model.
- What is the chamber length?
- The chamber is precisely machined to accept 3-inch maximum length shells. You can safely fire 2¾-inch shells, but never attempt to fire a 3½-inch shell, as it will cause a catastrophic failure. The chamber is marked '3"' on the barrel for verification.