TriStar Hunter Mag II O/U 12 Gauge 28in 3.5in
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The TriStar Hunter Mag II O/U 12 Gauge 28in 3.5in is an over-and-under shotgun built for hard-use in the field, combining a steel monoblock construction and a sealed, self-regulating action with a practical synthetic camo stock. I see it as a purpose-built tool for hunters who prioritize mechanical reliability and maximum shell compatibility over refined aesthetics. Its defining feature is that 3.5-inch chamber, which opens the door to everything from light target loads to heavy magnum turkey and waterfowl shells without a second thought.
What is the TriStar Hunter Mag II used for?
The TriStar Hunter Mag II is engineered as a no-frills field shotgun for hunters who need one gun to handle diverse conditions and game. Its chrome-lined, Cerakoted barrel and synthetic camo stock are built to shrug off moisture and abrasion in heavy brush or blinds. The real utility is in that 3.5-inch chamber and five included chokes, allowing a single firearm to be configured for turkey, waterfowl, upland birds, or even deer with slugs, covering most North American game seasons.
How does the TriStar Hunter Mag II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The TriStar Hunter Mag II is built for ruggedness and maximum shell versatility, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is optimized for target shooting and handling feel. The key mechanical difference is the chamber: the TriStar accepts 3.5-inch magnum shells for heavy waterfowl loads, while the Stevens 555 is limited to 3-inch chambers. For a hunter needing that extra power or confronting longer-range waterfowl, the TriStar is the objectively better tool; for someone focused on clays or upland birds where magnum loads are unnecessary, the Stevens 555 will have a smoother swing due to its 30-inch barrels and typically better balance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.6 pounds unloaded and features a 28-inch barrel with an overall length of approximately 46 inches. The barrel outside diameter at the muzzle is 0.850 inches, and the length of pull from the trigger to the end of the synthetic stock is 14.5 inches. This weight and balance point make it manageable for extended carries in the field, though it's noticeably heavier than many field-grade pumps or autoloaders, a trade-off for the over-and-under's simpler action.
Who is this NOT for?
The Hunter Mag II is not for the shooter seeking a refined, competition-ready over/under or a lightweight upland specialist. Its 7.6-pound weight and utilitarian feel won't appeal to someone used to the fast handling of a Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga. Furthermore, its focus on field durability means it lacks the finely checkered wood, detailed engraving, or adjustable triggers found on shotguns costing two or three times as much. If your primary use is clay sports or you demand premium fit and finish, invest elsewhere.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun, five Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes (Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a specialized choke tube wrench, and the factory packaging. The chokes are the critical component, each clearly marked and allowing you to tailor pattern density from a 40-inch spread at 25 yards with the Skeet tube to a dense 30-inch pattern with the Full tube. No case is included, which is typical for this price point; plan to spend another $50-$100 on a suitable hard or soft case for transport.
Is the TriStar Hunter Mag II worth it at $888.99?
At $888.99, the Hunter Mag II represents strong value for a hunter needing a durable, versatile 3.5-inch chambered over/under that won't be babied. You are paying for functional mechanics—the sealed action, chrome-lined barrel, and chamber compatibility—not for cosmetic embellishment. Compared to importing a similar Turkish-made O/U from another brand, you're often saving $200-$300 while getting the same core architecture. If your requirement is a 'do-everything' field gun that can run heavy magnums and withstand rough conditions, this price is justified. If you want a graceful upland gun or a dedicated clays machine, that money is better spent on a used Browning Citori or the aforementioned Stevens 555 Sporting models.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Accepts 3.5-inch shells - handles everything from 2.75" target loads to magnum waterfowl loads
- Five included Mobil-style choke tubes provide immediate pattern versatility for any game
- Chrome-lined barrel with Cerakote finish offers superior corrosion resistance in wet environments
- Sealed action design helps keep debris and moisture out of the lockwork during field use
Trade-offs
- Weight is 7.6 lbs - over 1.5 lbs heavier than many synthetic-stocked autoloaders, affecting swing speed
- Synthetic stock has a hollow feel and lacks the adjustability or premium texture of higher-end models
- Single selective trigger has a noticeably heavier pull weight (estimated 6-7 lbs) compared to competition guns
- No hard case included - requires an additional purchase for proper transport
Key attributes
| upc | 713780352213 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 35221 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Improved Mod/Modified/Skeet |
| color | BRONZE |
| length | 33.25 |
| package height | 2.6 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.25 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes?
- Yes, it uses the standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. This is one of the most common and readily available systems. You can use any aftermarket Mobil-style choke tube from brands like Carlson's, Patternmaster, or Trulock.
- Does this fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, but verify the interior case length. The overall length is approximately 46 inches. Most cases designed for '28-inch barrel' shotguns have an internal length between 48 and 50 inches, providing adequate clearance. I recommend a case with at least 48 inches of interior space.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory typically processes and ships within 2-3 business days. Transit time depends on the carrier and destination, but ground shipping to most continental US locations adds 3-7 business days. Your selected FFL must provide their license to us before we ship.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory offers a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. The process requires you to contact customer service for an RMA number before returning the firearm to our facility. Do not send a firearm directly to the manufacturer without authorization from us first, as it may void the warranty support channel.