Introducing Tristar and the Over Under Design
The world of shotguns is vast, offering a diverse array of firearms designed for everything from upland bird hunting to competitive clay shooting. Within this world, the over-under shotgun design stands out for its inherent balance, reliability, and elegance. This article delves into the realm of the Tristar Over Under in 20 Gauge, examining its features, performance, and suitability for various shooting disciplines. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a target shooting enthusiast, or someone looking for a versatile firearm, the Tristar Over Under 20 Ga deserves a closer look.
Understanding the Tristar Over Under Series
Tristar is a firearms manufacturer known for producing quality firearms at accessible price points. They’ve carved a niche for themselves by offering shotguns that provide excellent value without compromising on performance or build quality. The over-under shotgun, also known as a “double-barreled shotgun,” features two barrels stacked vertically, one above the other. This design offers several advantages over other shotgun configurations. Its balanced feel makes it point naturally and swing smoothly, contributing to better accuracy, particularly when engaging moving targets. The over-under design often boasts enhanced reliability due to its straightforward mechanics and less complex action compared to semi-automatic shotguns.
The Tristar Over Under series encompasses a range of models, each designed for specific applications. While the specific features vary across different models, certain elements are common throughout the series, which are central to the Tristar brand. Tristar uses quality materials in the construction of their shotguns. The receivers are commonly made from steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Barrels are typically chrome-lined for corrosion resistance and longevity. The stocks and forends can vary, often featuring walnut or synthetic materials, depending on the model and price point. The overall build quality is generally good for a shotgun in its class.
The heart of an over-under is the action, responsible for opening, closing, and firing the gun. Tristar Over Unders typically utilize a robust hinge system and a secure locking mechanism. These systems ensure a tight lockup, crucial for consistent performance and safe operation. They often include automatic ejectors, which quickly remove spent shells, allowing for faster follow-up shots. Safety features are paramount in all firearms. Tristar incorporates features like manual safeties, which are often located on the tang (the top rear portion of the receiver), and often a barrel selector, allowing the shooter to choose which barrel to fire first.
Choke tubes are an essential component of a shotgun, determining the spread of the shot. Tristar Over Unders frequently come with interchangeable choke tubes, allowing shooters to tailor the pattern to the specific target or hunting situation. These tubes often come in a variety of constrictions, ranging from cylinder (widest spread) to full (tightest spread). The external finish of the shotgun is another key aspect of its appearance. Tristar offers a variety of finishes, including blued steel, matte black, or even more decorative finishes, to suit different tastes. Stocks can be crafted from polished walnut, adding a touch of elegance, or from durable synthetic materials, which are more resistant to the elements.
The Appeal of the 20 Gauge
The 20 gauge is a popular shotgun gauge, offering a sweet spot between the power of a 12 gauge and the lighter recoil and weight of a .410. The 20 gauge shines due to its versatility. It’s powerful enough for many hunting applications, while its lighter recoil makes it a pleasure to shoot, especially for those sensitive to heavier recoil or smaller statured shooters. The reduced weight and maneuverability of a 20 gauge over a 12 gauge makes it ideal for carrying in the field for extended periods.
When we focus on the specific Tristar Over Under models chambered in 20 gauge, we find a host of features that optimize its performance. Barrel lengths vary but are typically in the range suitable for both field use and target shooting. The 20-gauge model is generally lighter than its 12-gauge counterparts. This contributes to better handling and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions. Stock dimensions are often designed to provide a comfortable fit for a wide range of shooters.
Each Tristar Over Under 20 Ga comes equipped with a set of interchangeable choke tubes. Typically included will be a set of cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, and full chokes. These allow the shooter to select the ideal shot pattern for different targets and distances. Common accessories like a hard case, choke tube wrench, and a cleaning kit are often included with the purchase.
Performance on the Range and in the Field
The shooting experience with a Tristar Over Under 20 Ga is generally very pleasant. Recoil is manageable, making for enjoyable shooting sessions. This, coupled with the balanced weight distribution, makes the shotgun point naturally and track moving targets with ease. The balance makes swinging on clays or following running game a fluid process. The trigger pull on Tristar shotguns is usually crisp and responsive. The trigger pull is crucial for accuracy, allowing for precise shot placement.
Accuracy and pattern performance are key factors in judging any shotgun. The Tristar Over Under 20 Ga, when paired with the right choke, can deliver excellent patterns at varying distances. Choke selection plays a significant role in determining the pattern spread. A tighter choke (like Modified or Full) produces a denser pattern at longer ranges, ideal for longer shots. A more open choke (like Improved Cylinder or Cylinder) spreads the shot more widely, suitable for closer targets. Proper choke selection is critical for maximizing shot efficiency and ensuring clean kills or consistent clay breaks. The Tristar Over Under 20 Ga, in the hands of a competent shooter, is accurate enough for effective use in a variety of hunting and target shooting situations. The effective range will depend on the game, the ammunition used, and the choke selection.
Exploring Versatile Applications
The Tristar Over Under 20 Ga demonstrates its versatility in a wide variety of applications. In the hunting world, the 20 gauge is a stellar choice for a multitude of species. It excels in upland bird hunting, providing the right balance of power and maneuverability for flushing birds. The 20 gauge is also a great choice for waterfowl hunting, particularly for smaller ducks and geese. The manageable recoil is helpful when taking numerous shots over a day. In many areas, the 20 gauge is also a suitable choice for hunting small game, such as rabbits and squirrels.
Beyond hunting, the Tristar Over Under 20 Ga is also well-suited for target shooting. It’s often found on the clay shooting ranges, offering a reliable and enjoyable experience. It’s suitable for both sporting clays, skeet, and trap. The over-under design provides a clear sight plane and allows for quick follow-up shots, advantages critical in competitive shooting. The versatility extends to a potential role in home defense (although this should be carefully considered, and it is always crucial to adhere to all local laws and regulations). The user must consider that a shotgun is a very potent weapon and proper training and safe handling practices are paramount.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Tristar Over Under 20 Ga presents several key advantages. Affordability is a major selling point. Tristar shotguns offer great value, making them accessible to shooters on a budget. The Over Under designs are often inherently reliable, and Tristar’s build quality has earned it a reputation for dependability. The versatility of the shotgun allows it to be used across a broad range of shooting disciplines and hunting applications, from busting clays to hunting birds. The Tristar Over Under 20 Ga is an excellent value, providing a lot of performance for the price.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks. It may lack some of the advanced features and refinements found on higher-end, more expensive shotguns. The customization options, while available to some extent, may be more limited compared to other brands. Finally, some subjective criticisms might arise due to personal preferences regarding aesthetics and feel. However, these are minor drawbacks.
Comparison and Considerations
In the competitive market, the Tristar Over Under 20 Ga finds itself competing with other brands within the budget-friendly price range. Some of its competitors include Stoeger, which offers a comparable lineup, and CZ-USA, known for producing quality shotguns. When considering a purchase, it’s essential to evaluate other options in the same price bracket. This helps you determine what features matter most to you and which shotgun best suits your shooting style and needs. Comparing the Tristar with its competitors involves evaluating factors such as overall build quality, features, availability of parts, and user reviews.
Essential Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the long-term performance and longevity of your Tristar Over Under 20 Ga. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. After each shooting session, the shotgun should be cleaned. This involves removing any fouling from the barrel and the action. Use a good quality gun cleaning solvent, appropriate brushes, and a bore snake. Then, lubricate the moving parts with a gun oil. This prevents corrosion and ensures smooth operation.
When the shotgun is not in use, it should be stored in a safe, dry place. Consider using a gun safe or a lockable case to keep it out of reach of unauthorized users. It’s also beneficial to periodically inspect the shotgun for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly. Following these basic care tips will keep your Tristar Over Under 20 Ga operating flawlessly for years to come.
A Versatile Choice
In conclusion, the Tristar Over Under 20 Ga stands out as a versatile and valuable shotgun. Its reliable over-under design, combined with the advantages of the 20-gauge platform, makes it suitable for hunting and target shooting. The affordability of the Tristar makes it a great option for new or experienced shooters looking for quality at a reasonable price. With careful maintenance and proper care, the Tristar Over Under 20 Ga can be a reliable companion for years. It’s a good value for those in search of a versatile and dependable shotgun.
