TriStar Cypher O/U Shotgun 28 Gauge 28in Deluxe Walnut
About this product
The TriStar Cypher O/U Shotgun 28 Gauge 28in Deluxe Walnut is a break-action, over/under shotgun chambered for 28-gauge, designed for upland field and sporting clays use. It delivers a traditional platform with a full set of extended chokes, a clear fiber optic front sight, and a walnut stock, aiming to provide versatility in a lightweight, maneuverable form factor. This configuration is positioned as a dedicated 28-gauge option in a market often dominated by 12 and 20-gauge models, offering a distinct ballistic and handling profile.
What is the TriStar Cypher used for?
The TriStar Cypher is used for hunting fast, small upland game like quail and dove in thick cover and for recreational sporting clays courses where shot-to-shot consistency is paramount. It weighs just 6 pounds, making it exceptionally fast to mount and swing through dense brush over long, uneven walks, a handling advantage that's critical when hunting native Montana sharp-tailed grouse without a dog. The included five extended chokes (F, IC, IM, M, SK) allow for immediate pattern adjustment from 40-yard crossing shots on a clay course to 15-yard flushes in the timber.
How does the TriStar Cypher compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting?
The TriStar Cypher is better for a true 28-gauge purist who values a dedicated, lighter-recoiling upland tool, while the similarly-priced Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge 30in is better for a shooter whose primary need is cheaper, more readily available ammunition and a heavier gun for longer days on a formal clays range. The Cypher's 6.0-pound weight is nearly 2 full pounds lighter than the 20-gauge Stevens 555's listed 7.9 pounds, translating directly to faster handling but also more pronounced felt recoil with standard loads.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Cypher weighs 6.0 pounds (96 ounces) and measures 45.5 inches in overall length with a 28-inch barrel. This length-to-weight ratio provides a 41-inch point-balance measured 6.5 inches forward of the hinge pin, making it muzzle-light and lively for instinctive snap-shooting, but potentially too quick for shooters accustomed to the 50-inch, 8-plus-pound swing weights of competition-targeted over/unders.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for budget-conscious hunters who prioritize ammunition cost and availability, or for anyone requiring more than two shots in quick succession. 28-gauge target loads cost approximately 25-40% more per box than standard 12 or 20-gauge shells, which adds up quickly during a 100-target practice session, and this gun's two-round fixed mechanical capacity precludes its use in any organized clay discipline requiring more than two simultaneous targets.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, five extended choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK), choke tube wrenches, and the owner's manual. The chokes are machined from heat-treated 4140 steel and feature a knurled, extended rear section for hand-tightening and removal, eliminating the need for a separate tool in the field after they are initially set, which is a practical upgrade over flush-mount chokes common on other entry-level over/unders like the Stevens 555 series.
Is the TriStar Cypher worth it at $926.99?
At $926.99, the Cypher is worth it for the shooter specifically seeking a dedicated, no-compromise 28-gauge over/under with a full choke set for clays and field versatility, but not for someone who would be better served and have lower operating costs with a 20-gauge. You are paying a premium for the niche chambering and the included hardware; if your hunting is mixed-bag and you walk more open fields, the heavier, cheaper-to-feed Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge delivers more mechanical value for the same dollar.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs only 6.0 lbs (96 oz) — exceptionally light for fast upland handling.
- Includes five extended chokes (F, IC, IM, M, SK) — covers all field and sporting clay scenarios out of the box.
- 28-inch barrel provides a 41-inch point-balance for a quick, muzzle-light swing.
- Fiber optic front sight uses a 3mm green insert for high-visibility target acquisition.
Trade-offs
- 28-gauge ammunition costs ~$15/box for target loads — 35% more than equivalent 20-gauge shells, increasing practice cost.
- Two-round fixed capacity precludes use in trap doubles or sporting clays events requiring three shots.
- The 14.5-inch length of pull is not adjustable; shortening requires a $150+ gunsmith job.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780331669 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 33166 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 28 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | F,IC,IM,M,SK Extended |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 31.5 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 10.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.4 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 28-gauge choke tubes?
- Yes, the Cypher uses a standard Invector-style choke tube threading system, the most common pattern for 28-gauge. The included five extended tubes are machined to this spec, and aftermarket tubes from brands like Trulock and Browning will fit properly.
- Does it fit a youth or shorter shooter?
- It may not, without modification. The factory length of pull on the Deluxe Walnut stock is approximately 14.5 inches, which is standard for an adult shooter. For a shorter reach, you would need a professional gunsmith to cut and re-fit the stock, a process costing around $150-$200 plus finishing work.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within 1-2 business days. Transit time via common carriers like UPS or FedEx is typically 3-5 business days to a continental US FFL dealer, though rural locations may add 1-2 days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, due to federal firearm regulations, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms for fit or "change of mind" reasons once the transfer to your FFL has been initiated. All sales are final after the initial 3-day inspection period for mechanical defects only.
- Does this work with a standard shotgun case?
- Yes, a standard 46-inch break-down shotgun case will accommodate the Cypher's 45.5-inch overall length. A Plano All-Weather Model 108511 case, with internal dimensions of 47.5 inches, provides a secure fit with room for chokes and accessories.