TriStar Phoenix SxS Shotgun 20 Gauge 28 in. Walnut/Case Color
About this product
The TriStar Phoenix SxS Shotgun 20 Gauge 28 in. Walnut/Case Color is a modern-manufactured side-by-side shotgun blending traditional aesthetics with functional upgrades for field and sporting use. Built with a case-colored hardened steel receiver and Turkish walnut stock, it accepts 3-inch 20-gauge shells and ships with five Beretta-pattern choke tubes for versatility across upland game and clays. Its 28-inch barrel and selective trigger provide classic handling with reliable mechanical performance.
What is the TriStar Phoenix SxS Shotgun used for?
The Phoenix excels in upland bird hunting and sporting clays due to its 28-inch barrel length and included choke versatility. Its 7.2-pound weight balances well for quick swings on flushing birds, and the selective trigger allows rapid follow-up shots without manual selection. The 20-gauge chambering reduces recoil compared to 12-gauge options, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions.
How does the TriStar Phoenix compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Phoenix offers faster handling for close-quarters upland hunting, while the Stevens 555 O/U provides better stability for sustained clay target sequences. The Phoenix weighs 7.2 pounds versus the Stevens 555's 7.8 pounds, making it quicker to shoulder, but the over-under action of the Stevens Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge 30in Walnut O/U Shotgun review offers tighter lockup for consistent patterning at longer ranges. Choose the Phoenix for fast field work and the Stevens for disciplined clay sports.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.2 pounds (116 ounces) with an overall length of 45 inches. Barrel length is 28 inches with a bore diameter of 0.615 inches, and the stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull. These dimensions place it firmly in the standard field gun category, balancing maneuverability with swing inertia.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not ideal for high-volume trap shooting or waterfowl hunting requiring 3.5-inch shells. Its 2-round capacity limits sustained fire compared to semi-autos, and the case-colored finish lacks the corrosion resistance of modern coatings like Cerakote. For wetland environments or more on 500-round practice sessions, consider a synthetic-stocked semi-auto with higher capacity.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, five Beretta/Benelli Mobil-pattern choke tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet), one choke tube key, and a basic owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case or additional accessories like a recoil pad spacer kit.
Is the TriStar Phoenix worth it at $761.99?
At $761.99, the Phoenix offers solid value for shooters wanting traditional aesthetics without custom gunsmithing costs. The included choke set alone retails for $90 separately, and the walnut stock showcases better figure than many Turkish imports at this price. However, the mechanical trigger group lacks the refinements of higher-end Spanish or Italian SxS shotguns, justifying its mid-tier positioning.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.2 lbs — 0.6 lbs lighter than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge
- Includes 5 choke tubes (Full, IM, Mod, IC, Skeet) — $90 value separately
- 28-inch barrel provides 1250 fps average velocity with standard 7/8 oz loads
Trade-offs
- Case-colored finish lacks corrosion resistance — requires oiling after wet field use
- 2-round capacity limits实用性 for high-volume shooting
- Stock checkering is 18 LPI — shallower than premium 22-24 LPI patterns
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780380049 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 38004 |
| action | Side By Side |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Improved Mod/Modified/Skeet |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 36.75 |
| model | Phoenix |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 8.9 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.8 |
| sights | Brass Bead Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta Mobilchoke tubes?
- Yes, it uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke pattern exactly. All five included tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet) are interchangeable with aftermarket Mobilchoke products from brands like Carlson's or Briley.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, its 45-inch overall length fits most standard cases. For ideal protection, use a case with internal dimensions of at least 47 inches to accommodate extended chokes and avoid pressure on the stock.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms ship via Ironclad Armory's licensed carriers within 3-5 business days after FFL verification. Transit time varies by location but typically adds 2-7 additional days via UPS or FedEx Ground.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for mechanical defects verified by Ironclad Armory's smiths. Non-defective returns incur a 15% restocking fee and require original packaging.