TriStar Viper G2 12ga 26in Vent Rib Camo
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The TriStar Viper G2 is a gas-operated semi-automatic 12 gauge hunting shotgun built for reliability across varying field loads. It features a 26-inch vent-rib barrel with a chrome-lined chamber and ships with three Beretta/Benelli-style choke tubes. This 6.8 lb platform is designed to provide straightforward operation for hunters and sporting shooters who need a versatile workhorse.
What is the TriStar Viper G2 12ga 26in Vent Rib Camo used for?
This shotgun is primarily used for waterfowl and upland bird hunting in variable terrain, where its camo finish provides a functional advantage. The 26-inch barrel provides a good balance between swing speed for flushing birds and muzzle control for follow-up shots. Its gas-operated system and included choke tubes allow it to cycle everything from light 2¾-inch target loads to standard 3-inch hunting loads with consistent reliability, making it suitable for a long day in the blind.
How does the TriStar Viper G2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Viper G2 is a better choice for hunters who prioritize high-volume, rapid follow-up shots over the elegance of a break-action. The Viper G2 holds 5+1 rounds in its tubular magazine versus the Stevens 555's two-shot capacity, giving it a distinct advantage for waterfowl or dove hunting where flocks present multiple targets. However, the over-under design of the Stevens 555 Sporting is superior for dedicated trap or skeet shooting where instant, visible verification of an empty chamber is often required on the range.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.8 lbs (108.9 oz) with an empty magazine and has an overall length of 46.5 inches. The 26-inch barrel has a vent rib that is 7.5mm wide, providing a clear, glare-reducing sight plane. The length of pull from the trigger to the center of the 1-inch thick rubber recoil pad is approximately 14.25 inches, which fits a standard adult frame but may require a spacer kit for shooters with longer arms.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not the shotgun for a shooter seeking a dedicated competition gun for registered NSCA sporting clays or a heirloom-grade walnut-stocked piece. The synthetic camo stock, while durable, lacks the fine checkering and adjustable comb of purpose-built target guns like the Beretta A400 Xcel. It’s also not ideal for someone who exclusively shoots ultra-light target loads, as its gas system is tuned for standard hunting ammunition and may be less reliable with 1 oz, 1145 fps loads.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli-style choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and a plastic storage box for the tubes. The shotgun ships with a magazine plug installed to limit capacity to 2+1 for migratory bird hunting compliance, which can be removed in about 90 seconds using a simple punch. The box does not include a sling, swivels, or a hard case—those are necessary separate purchases for field use.
Is the TriStar Viper G2 worth it at $761.99?
At this price point, the Viper G2 offers substantial value for a hunter needing a reliable, camo-clad semi-auto that works straight out of the box. You're getting a chrome-lined barrel, a proven choke tube thread pattern, and a functional fiber-optic sight for several hundred dollars less than an equivalent camo model from a legacy brand. For the shooter who treats tools as tools, it’s a calculated buy; for the collector or the shooter who demands premium fit and finish, the investment is better directed elsewhere, perhaps towards a more refined option like the Stevens 334 rifle for big game.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lbs — balances well for a 26-inch barrel semi-auto.
- Includes 3 choke tubes (IC, M, F) with wrench — covers most hunting patterns immediately.
- Gas-operated action — more reliable with varying 12ga loads than many inertia systems.
- Chrome-lined barrel and chamber — simplifies cleaning and resists corrosion.
Trade-offs
- Synthetic camo stock lacks adjustability — no shims or spacers for cast or drop.
- Manual safety is crossbolt style — less intuitive for some shooters than a tang safety.
- No hard case included — adds $50-$100 to the total cost for proper storage/transport.
Key attributes
| upc | 713780241395 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 24139 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 37.25 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.8 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| model | Viper G2 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses the standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube threading pattern. This is one of the most common choke systems, giving you access to a wide range of aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's, Briley, and Trulock. The three included tubes (IC, M, F) cover most hunting scenarios.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch rifle case?
- Yes, with room to spare. The shotgun's overall length is 46.5 inches, so it will fit diagonally in most standard 48-inch hard or soft cases. I recommend a case with at least 1.5 inches of internal padding to properly protect the vent rib and fiber-optic sight during transport.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days from order verification to the FFL receiving the shipment. You must contact your chosen FFL dealer beforehand to provide their license and arrange the transfer, which usually adds another 1-2 business days for paperwork processing on their end.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Direct returns for mechanical issues are handled through TriStar's warranty service, not typically through the retailer. TriStar provides a 5-year limited warranty. If you encounter a failure to feed, fire, or eject, you would need to initiate a warranty claim, and they will provide a shipping label to their service center for repair.
- Does this work with 3.5-inch magnum shells?
- No, it does not. The chamber is engineered for 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells only. Attempting to force a 3.5-inch shell into the 3-inch chamber is a critical safety violation and will cause a dangerous obstruction. For 3.5-inch magnum waterfowl loads, you need a shotgun specifically chambered for that length.