TriStar Hunter Mag II 12 Gauge O/U 28″ Vent Rib Camo
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.6 lbs — 1.4 lbs lighter than a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U
- Includes 5 Mobil-style chokes — covers Full through Skeet patterns
- Chrome-lined 28" barrel — resists corrosion better than unlined alternatives
- 14.5" length of pull — fits most adult shooters without modification
Trade-offs
- Fixed synthetic stock — no adjustability for comb height or cast
- 2-round capacity only — not suitable for tactical or high-volume scenarios
- Alloy receiver scratches easily — shows wear faster than steel receivers
- No recoil pad installed — adds $30-50 for a Pachmayr Decelerator
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The TriStar Hunter Mag II 12 Gauge O/U 28" Vent Rib Camo is a field-ready over/under shotgun built with modern materials and traditional handling for hunters requiring reliable performance in wet or abrasive environments. Built with a lightweight alloy receiver and synthetic camo furniture, it prioritizes corrosion resistance and durability over cosmetic appeal or competitive features. The included Mobil-style choke system and 28" vent rib barrel provide solid versatility for upland birds or waterfowl within its 2-round capacity constraints.
What is the TriStar Hunter Mag II used for?
This shotgun is designed for upland bird and waterfowl hunting where weather resistance and quick handling matter more than high-round-count scenarios. The fixed TrueTimber Strata stock sheds moisture effectively, and the chrome-lined 28" barrel with five choke tubes (Full, Mod, Imp Mod, Imp Cyl, Skeet) handles everything from pheasant to goose when paired with appropriate ammunition. It's not built for clays or tactical use—this is purely a field gun optimized for 2-shell practicality.
How does the TriStar Hunter Mag II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The Hunter Mag II is 1.4 lbs lighter and 2 inches shorter than the Stevens 555 Sporting, making it better for brushy terrain or long carries, but sacrifices the 555's walnut stock aesthetics and extended sight plane. Where the Stevens 555 excels at formal clays with its 30" barrel and refined balance, the Hunter Mag II prioritizes camo concealment and alloy durability—choose based on whether you're hunting birds or breaking clays.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.6 lbs (121.6 oz), with an overall length of 46.5 inches and a 28" barrel featuring a 10 mm vent rib. The synthetic stock has a 14.5" length of pull and 1.5" drop at comb, fitting most adult shooters without adjustment. Balance point sits 2 inches forward of the hinge, favoring steady swings rather than fast acquisitions.
Who is this NOT for?
Skip this if you need more than 2 rounds—this isn't a tactical or competition gun. The fixed choke system and lack of recoil pads also make it poorly suited for high-volume shooters or those requiring interchangeable ribs. For clays, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in instead; for home defense, look at semi-autos.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, five Mobil-style choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, Skeet), a 3.5" aluminum choke key, and a 12-month limited warranty card. No case or cleaning kit is included—plan to spend another $40-$60 on a padded soft case and basic cleaning rod. Chokes are Beretta/Benelli patterned, so aftermarket options are plentiful.
Is the TriStar Hunter Mag II worth it at $888.99?
At this price, it's a fair value for hunters who prioritize corrosion resistance over wood-and-blue elegance. You're getting a nitride-finished alloy receiver, chrome-lined barrels, and a camo dip that'll hold up to briars and rain better than a blued the Stevens 334 Rifle. Just know you're buying a tool, not a showpiece—spend more if you want engraving or adjustable combs.
Key attributes
| upc | 713780352237 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 35223 |
| 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 | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 33.25 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 9.25 |
| 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 Benelli mobil chokes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes—the same pattern as many Benelli and Beretta shotguns. The included set (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet) threads are standardized. Aftermarket options from Carlson's or Briley drop right in without adapters.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, at 46.5 inches overall length, it fits most standard 48-inch cases with 1.5 inches to spare. I use a Plano All-Weather 52" case for extra padding—allows storing chokes and key in the lid without cramming.
- How long does shipping take?
- Expect 3-7 business days for ground shipping within the continental US, depending on your FFL's processing time. Ironclad Armory ships within 24 hours of cleared payment, but your local dealer adds 1-2 days for paperwork.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle low brass shells?
- No—firearms are non-returnable once transferred. If it fails with standard 2.75" low brass (e.g., Federal Field & Target), contact TriStar warranty support for repair. They typically turn around repairs in 10-14 business days.