TriStar Viper Max 12ga 3.5″ 28″ Semi-Auto Shotgun
About this product
The TriStar Viper Max 12ga 3.5'' 28'' Semi-Auto Shotgun is a gas-operated 12-gauge shotgun built to handle everything from light target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnum shells using an innovative dual-piston system. This Turkish-made workhorse combines serious waterfowl capability with the kind of reliability that matters when you're hip-deep in a marsh at dawn. At 7.4 pounds unloaded with its 28-inch barrel, it strikes a deliberate balance between shootability and portability, shipping with four essential Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes for immediate field readiness.
What is the TriStar Viper Max used for?
This shotgun is engineered for serious waterfowl and turkey hunting where 3.5-inch magnum shells are the standard. The dual-piston gas system reliably cycles everything from light 2.75-inch target loads to heavy 1-1/4 ounce waterfowl loads, making it versatile enough for clays practice or predator control. It's a specialist's tool first, with the Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camo and Cerakote finish specifically chosen for wet, abrasive environments.
How does the TriStar Viper Max compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Viper Max offers high-volume semi-auto capability where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge provides deliberate two-shot reliability. For pass-shooting geese or rapid follow-up shots on ducks, the Viper Max's 5+1 capacity and gas-operated action are superior; for the disciplined shooter who values simplicity and pointability in a field gun, the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U remains the cleaner choice. The comparison boils down to action preference: the over-under's instant barrel selection versus the semi-auto's faster potential for a second or third shot.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.4 pounds with an overall length of 49 inches, dictated by the 28-inch barrel. The balance point sits 3 inches forward of the receiver, giving it a slightly forward-heavy feel that helps manage recoil from 3.5-inch shells. The 14.5-inch length of pull and over-molded rubber grip ensure solid control even with wet gloves, a critical detail often overlooked on budget-friendly guns.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not the shotgun for a beginner or someone who exclusively shoots light target loads. The 7.4-pound weight and 28-inch barrel make it cumbersome for tight-cover grouse or squirrel hunting, and the gas system is optimized for higher-pressure shells. If your needs are strictly casual clay shooting or you prioritize a lightweight walking gun, consider a lighter over-under like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, four Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes (Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a removable 2-round shot plug, and the secondary gas piston stored in the forearm. The chokes are quality items, but the wrench is a basic stamped-steel design; invest in a quality multi-key if you plan on frequent changes. Total package weight from the factory is approximately 9.5 pounds with all accessories.
Is the TriStar Viper Max worth it at $875.99?
At just under $900, the Viper Max delivers legitimate 3.5-inch waterfowl performance at nearly half the price of a Benelli SBE3. You're paying for the core mechanical function—the reliable gas system and chrome-lined chamber—while accepting a synthetic stock that lacks the fine-tuning of more expensive models. For the hunter who needs magnum-shell capability without a $1,600 investment, this is one of the most cost-effective entries on the market.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 2.75-inch to 3.5-inch shells reliably via dual-piston gas system — a $400 cost saving over comparable Benelli systems
- Weighs 7.4 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than many dedicated 3.5-inch magnum guns like the Browning A5
- Includes 4 Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes (SK, IC, M, F) — a $120 value if purchased separately
- Bronze Cerakote barrel finish resants corrosion 3x longer than standard bluing in saltwater environments
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock has minimal comb height adjustment — requires a $40-70 aftermarket pad for precise fit
- Trigger pull averages 6.5 pounds — 1.5 pounds heavier than premium competitors, affecting fast follow-up shots
- Vent rib is press-fit, not screw-in — limits options for custom sight rib installations common in competitive shooting
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780241890 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 24189 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified/Skeet |
| color | BRONZE |
| length | 37.25 |
| package height | 3.25 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.6 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benetta Mobil chokes?
- Yes, it uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern and ships with four tubes. This is a major advantage, as Mobil chokes are widely available from manufacturers like Carlson's and Patternmaster for around $35-60 each.
- Does it come with a choke tube wrench?
- It includes a basic stamped-steel wrench, which is functional but not robust. For frequent use, I recommend upgrading to a Briley Multi-Key or similar hardened steel wrench, which typically costs $25-40 and won't deform under torque.
- How long is the warranty period?
- TriStar provides a 5-year limited warranty on the Viper Max, which is handled through their Kansas-based service center. Turnaround for warranty work is typically 2-3 weeks, not including shipping time.
- Can the magazine tube be extended?
- No, the magazine tube is integrated into the receiver design and cannot be legally extended without falling under NFA regulations as a Title II firearm. The 5+1 capacity is fixed and compliant for migratory bird hunting with the plug installed.
- What is the barrel thread pattern for chokes?
- It uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil thread pattern, which has a diameter of 22.2mm at the muzzle. This is the same thread as used on most Beretta A400 series shotguns and many Benelli models, ensuring broad aftermarket compatibility.