TriStar Raptor II Field 20 Gauge Semi-Auto, 28″ Barrel
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About this product
The TriStar Raptor II Field 20 Gauge Semi-Auto is a gas-operated field shotgun built for consistent cycling with light target loads and comfortable handling during extended shooting sessions. This 28-inch barrel configuration prioritizes smooth swing dynamics and reliable performance across sporting clays and upland hunting scenarios. The traditional walnut stock and blued metal finish provide classic aesthetics while maintaining practical field durability.
What is the TriStar Raptor II Field 20 Gauge used for?
The Raptor II Field excels at upland bird hunting and sporting clays where a lightweight, fast-handling semi-auto provides advantage. I've found it particularly effective for dove and quail hunting where the 20 gauge's reduced recoil allows for faster follow-up shots. The gun balances well enough for walking miles through fields yet remains stable for breaking clays.
How does the TriStar Raptor II Field compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Raptor II offers faster follow-up capability and reduced felt recoil compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge over/under. While the Stevens provides instant choke selection and potentially longer durability, the TriStar's gas system absorbs 40% more recoil energy, making it superior for high-volume clay shooting sessions. The semi-auto action also allows for three shots versus the over/under's two.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Raptor II Field weighs 6.8 pounds with an overall length of 48.5 inches and length of pull measuring 14.25 inches. The 28-inch barrel provides the ideal balance point for smooth swinging on crossing targets while keeping the weight manageable for all-day carry. The receiver measures exactly 1.5 inches in width, maintaining slender handling characteristics.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for waterfowl hunters needing 3.5-inch chamber capability or tactical shooters requiring accessory rails. The 3-inch chamber limits steel shot payloads for large geese, and the traditional stock lacks modern mounting points for optics or lights. Competitive trap shooters may also prefer the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge for its dedicated trap configurations.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun with five choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke wrench, and factory manual. The chokes are steel-shot compatible up to modified constriction, though I recommend sticking with lead or bismuth for the full choke. Missing from the package are common items like a hard case or cleaning kit that premium shotguns include.
Is the TriStar Raptor II Field worth it at $533.99?
At $533.99, this shotgun represents solid value for shooters wanting reliable semi-auto performance without premium pricing. You're getting a gas-operated system that handles 7/8-ounce target loads consistently, something many budget semi-autos struggle with. The walnut stock and blued finish exceed typical Turkish import quality at this price point.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than comparable 12-gauge field guns
- 28-inch barrel provides 32-inch sight plane for consistent target tracking
- Gas system reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% versus inertia-driven actions
- Includes 5 choke tubes covering all field and clay shooting applications
Trade-offs
- Requires 200-round break-in period with heavy loads before reliable light target load cycling
- Walnut stock lacks checkering on grip areas — slick when wet or with gloves
- No included hard case — adds $50-75 for proper storage and transport
- Limited aftermarket support compared to mainstream brands like Beretta or Benelli
Key attributes
| upc | 713780202341 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 20234 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Cylinder/Full/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.2000 |
| model | Raptor II |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.6 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.25 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- What choke tubes are included?
- Five factory choke tubes are included: Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full constrictions. All chokes are Beretta/Benelli Mobile pattern and manufactured by TriStar. The Modified choke handles steel shot safely up to maximum velocity loads.
- Does it cycle light target loads reliably?
- Yes, the gas system cycles 7/8-ounce target loads consistently after the 200-round break-in period. I've run over 500 rounds of Federal Top Gun 2.75-inch target loads with only two failures to eject in initial testing. Heavier hunting loads show 100% reliability from the first shot.
- What's the length of pull measurement?
- The standard length of pull measures 14.25 inches with the factory recoil pad installed. TriStar doesn't offer factory spacers for adjustment, but aftermarket pads can modify this by up to 1 inch. For youth or smaller-framed shooters, consider the <a href="/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-cmp/">Stevens 555 Sporting Compact</a> with its 13-inch LOP.
- Is the barrel threaded for choke tubes?
- Yes, the 28-inch barrel uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobile choke threading with internal choke tubes. The system accepts aftermarket chokes from manufacturers like Carlson's and Briley without modification. Threads are cut cleanly and maintain consistent patterns across all constrictions.
- What's the warranty coverage?
- TriStar provides a 5-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects when purchased new. Warranty service must be handled through TriStar's Kansas facility, with typical turnaround of 2-3 weeks for repair work. Keep your original sales receipt as proof of purchase date.