TriStar Bristol SxS 20 Gauge 28in Silver Receiver Walnut Stock
About this product
What is the TriStar Bristol SxS 20 Gauge? It is a full-size, steel-frame side-by-side shotgun that marries traditional aesthetics with functional field features, specifically serving shotgunners who require a dedicated upland and field gun with classic handling characteristics. This model, distinct from more modern tactical or sporting shotguns, prioritizes 28-inch barrels for swing dynamics and utilizes a fixed-choke profile stock for consistent mounting. Its construction from a true steel frame—not a lightweight alloy—provides foundational balance under the decorative nickel/silver receiver with 24K gold inlay.
What is the TriStar Bristol SxS used for?
The Bristol is engineered for upland bird hunting and open-field hunting over dogs. It excels when a quick, instinctive first shot on flushing game like pheasant or quail is required, thanks to the 28-inch barrels generating a smooth, deliberate swing arc of approximately 44 degrees per second of movement. The 20-gauge chambered for 3-inch shells offers a versatile palette from light target loads to heavier field loads, keeping the total gun weight to 6.7 pounds for all-day carry. Its top-tang safety and automatic ejectors are features directly adapted from premium English game guns for unthinking operation in the field.
How does the TriStar Bristol compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The TriStar Bristol is a better choice for the traditionalist seeking classic side-by-side handling and aesthetics, while the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge review is superior for the shooter focused on modern sporting versatility. The Stevens 555 is an over/under design, which most shooters find easier to learn for consistent point-of-impact between barrels, and it often features a more adjustable sporting stock. The Bristol, with its side-by-side configuration and fixed stock, provides a faster, more instinctive sight picture for snap shots on moving game but demands more practice to master its two-plane sight alignment.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Bristol weighs 6.7 pounds (108.9 ounces or 3,039 grams) with an empty chamber. Its critical dimensions are a 28-inch barrel with a 3-inch chamber, a length of pull measuring 14 5/8 inches, and a drop at comb of 1.5 inches. The overall length is 45.75 inches, with a bore center spacing of approximately 0.780 inches between the two 20-gauge barrels. These figures combine to create a balance point 4.5 inches forward of the hinge pin, contributing to its forward-weighted, swing-through handling feel.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for competitive clay shooters, home defense users, or anyone seeking a lightweight, all-terrain brush gun. The fixed stock dimensions and specialized point-of-impact typical of side-by-sides make it less intuitive for high-volume clay disciplines like Sporting Clays compared to a dedicated Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. Its 6.7-pound weight and 45.75-inch length also make it cumbersome for tight-quarters use, and the decorative receiver finish is not designed for harsh, abrasive environments. If your primary use involves shooting from a stationary position at static targets, a rifle is often a better tool.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete, assembled shotgun, five Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes (Cylinder Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and the manufacturer's documentation. The chokes are threaded for a 15/16-inch wrench and provide a constriction range from 0.000 inches (Cylinder Skeet) to 0.040 inches (Full). The gun ships with one choke tube pre-installed in each barrel, typically Improved Cylinder and Modified, which is a standard field setup. No gun case is included, so budget for a hard case at least 46.5 inches in interior length.
Is the TriStar Bristol worth it at $1102.99?
At $1102.99, the Bristol is worth it for the hunter who values classic side-by-side handling and aesthetics and understands they are buying functional art, not just a tool. You are paying for a true steel frame, select Turkish walnut, and hand-finished engraving that a base-model utility shotgun lacks. For comparison, a comparable Turkish-made over/under might start around $800, but won't offer the same level of receiver decoration or traditional side-by-side feel. If your budget is strictly functional and you need the most versatile gun possible, a pump-action or a basic over/under provides more utility per dollar.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- True steel frame at 6.7 lbs provides solid, swing-stabilizing heft—1.2 lbs heavier than many alloy-frame O/Us.
- Includes all five Mobil choke tubes (SK, IC, M, IM, F), providing an immediate, complete pattern spread from 20 to 40 yards.
- Select Turkish walnut stock with a 14 5/8" length of pull offers a consistent, traditional mounting surface.
- Automatic ejectors and top-tang safety replicate the manual-of-arms found on premium game guns costing 5x more.
Trade-offs
- Fixed stock dimensions may not suit all shooters—aftermarket adjustments are limited and costly.
- The decorative nickel/silver receiver shows holster wear and fingerprints more readily than a matte finish.
- Side-by-side barrel regulation means point of impact can differ by several inches, requiring shooter adaptation.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780381206 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 38120 |
| action | Break Open |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Improved Mod/Modified/Skeet |
| color | Silver |
| length | 36.75 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 10.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.25 |
| sights | Brass Bead Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta/Benelli choke tubes?
- Yes, the Bristol uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. The set of five tubes included are SK, IC, M, IM, and F, covering all standard constrictions. Do not use Winchester/WinChoke or Browning/Invector tubes, as they are not compatible.
- Does this fit in a standard 52-inch gun case?
- Yes, an interior length of 48 inches is the minimum I recommend. The gun's 45.75-inch overall length fits comfortably in a standard 52-inch takedown case with room for the choke wrench and an extra set of tubes. Ensure the case has foam cutouts for a double-barrel profile.
- How long does shipping and FFL transfer take?
- Plan for 3-7 business days for shipping to your chosen, verified FFL from our warehouse. Once shipped, a tracking number is provided. The FFL transfer itself, including the NICS background check, typically adds another 20-60 minutes at the dealer, but can vary by state.
- Can I return it if it has a mechanical defect?
- Yes, we offer a 30-day return for manufacturer defects verified by our armorers. Cosmetic variations in the walnut or minor metal finish marks do not constitute a defect. The gun must be unfired, in original packaging, and sent to our facility for inspection, a process taking 10-14 business days.
- Does this work with a standard 20-gauge shotshell?
- Yes, it chambers both 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells. Always start by patterning your chosen shell-and-choke combination, as shot placement can vary between the left and right barrel by 3-4 inches at 25 yards, which is normal for a side-by-side.