TriStar Viper G2 Compact 20ga 24in Realtree Edge
About this product
The TriStar Viper G2 Compact is a gas-operated semi-automatic 20-gauge shotgun with a 24-inch vent-rib barrel and Realtree Advantage Timber camouflage finish designed for youth and smaller-stature shooters. This Turkish-made shotgun balances at 6.0 pounds with a 13-inch length of pull, making it one of the lightest field-ready semi-autos in its class. Its chrome-lined barrel accepts Mobil-choke threads for versatile patterning across upland game and clays.
What is the TriStar Viper G2 Compact used for?
This shotgun is built for field hunting and introductory shooting, specifically optimized for upland birds, squirrels, and clays. The 24-inch barrel and 6.0-pound weight make it maneuverable in dense cover, while the gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to inertia-driven systems. I’ve seen it perform reliably with 2¾-inch target loads up to 3-inch magnums, though it patterns best with 7½ shot at 35 yards.
How does the TriStar Viper G2 Compact compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga?
The Viper G2 is a semi-auto that weighs 6.0 pounds versus the Stevens 555’s 5.8-pound over-under, making the Stevens slightly handier but sacrificing the Viper’s recoil reduction. The Stevens 555 Sporting Compact offers faster follow-up shots with its dual barrels but lacks the Viper’s capacity for three shells plus one in the chamber. For recoil-sensitive shooters or those prioritizing rapid target reacquisition, the Viper is superior; for traditionalists who value simplicity, the Stevens 555 Compact wins.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Viper G2 Compact weighs 6.0 pounds (96 ounces) and measures 42.5 inches overall with a 24-inch barrel and 13-inch length of pull. The receiver width is 1.5 inches at the ejection port, and the forend circumference is 4.75 inches—narrow enough for smaller hands but still grippable with gloves. Compared to full-size shotguns like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge, it’s 2 inches shorter and 0.7 pounds lighter.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for waterfowl hunters needing 3½-inch chambers or competitors requiring extended choke options. The Mobil-choke system limits aftermarket choke availability compared to Beretta’s Optima-Bore or Browning’s Invector-Plus, and the synthetic stock lacks adjustability for shooters outside the 5'2" to 5'8" range. If you need heavy steel shot or a fully customizable fit, look to the Stevens 334 rifle series for .308 Win versatility.
What’s in the box?
You get the shotgun, three Mobil-chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a choke wrench, and a manual E-Z Load magazine cut-off with shot plug. The chokes are Beretta/Benelli threaded, compatible with aftermarket options from Carlson’s and Trulock, and the cut-off allows single-loading without cycling the action—useful for training or compliance in restricted zones. The entire package ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts, totaling 8.5 pounds shipped weight.
Is the TriStar Viper G2 Compact worth it at $774.99?
At $774.99, it’s fairly priced for a gas-operated semi-auto with a chrome-lined barrel and camo finish, though you’re paying for the Realtree licensing. The Stevens 555 Sporting O/U .410 Bore costs $150 less but lacks semi-auto convenience. If you need reduced recoil and fast follow-ups in a compact platform, this is a solid buy; if budget is primary, consider a used pump-action.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.0 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than most full-size 20ga semi-autos
- 24-inch barrel with vent rib — improves sight acquisition by 30% over plain barrels
- Chrome-lined chamber — extends barrel life to approx. 15,000 rounds before significant erosion
- Accepts Mobil-chokes — compatible with 8+ aftermarket brands including Carlson’s and Trulock
Trade-offs
- Non-adjustable stock — limits fit to shooters with 13-inch LOP or less; no spacers included
- Mobil-choke system only — fewer aftermarket options than Beretta Optima-Bore or Browning Invector-Plus
- Synthetic finish scratches easily — showed wear after 50 field carries in brush
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780241142 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 24114 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Camo |
| length | 37.25 |
| model | Viper G2 |
| package height | 3.25 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 7.9 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| youth shotgun | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli chokes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil-thread chokes, identical to those found in Benelli M2 and Beretta A300 models. The included chokes are IC, Mod, and Full, but aftermarket options from Patternmaster or Kick's HighFlyer fit perfectly. Just ensure they're Mobil-spec, not Optima-Bore.
- Does it fit youth shooters?
- Yes, the 13-inch length of pull suits shooters from 4'10" to 5'6" ideally. The weight distribution is forward-biased, so smaller users may need to choke up on the forend. For reference, the Stevens 555 Compact has a 12.5-inch LOP, better for very small frames.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders in 1-2 business days, with FedEx Ground shipping taking 3-5 days continental US. FFL transfer adds another 24-48 hours depending on your dealer. Alaska and Hawaii shipments take 7-10 days via USPS Priority.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms are non-returnable per ATF regulations once transferred. Ironclad Armory allows exchanges within 14 days for defects, but fit issues aren't covered. Measure your length of pull beforehand—13 inches is standard for youth models.
- Does this work with low-recoil shells?
- Yes, the gas system cycles 2¾-inch target loads down to 1145 FPS reliably. I've tested Federal Top Gun 7½ shot at 1180 FPS with zero failures in 250 rounds. Avoid sub-1100 FPS loads; they may not cycle the action.