TriStar Matrix 12 gauge Shotgun

Introduction

Tristar is a firearms company with a specific stated purpose of specializing in value and firearms. With a variety of products manufactured in Turkey, they bring a great variety of firearm products at a very affordable price. Today we are taking a look at one of Tristar’s newer releases, the inertia driven Tristar Matrix 12 gauge Shotgun .

Yes, you read that right, the Matrix clones the clean and reliable operating system used big names like Benelli and Franchi. And while the Matrix is no slouch when it comes to looks, you might feel better about trouncing through the field or marsh with it instead of a more expensive shotgun.

The Tristar Matrix

The Matrix is their first venture into inertia driven shotguns, but hardly their first semi-auto. I’ve had the good fortune to shoot other Tristar shotguns, and I was impressed. With the Matrix using inertia to operate the action, the gun operates clean and requires less maintenance. And with a five-year warranty you can trust it will stay that way.

tristar, Matrix, 12 gauge, shotgun, semi-auto, inertia driven, — the controls of the Matrix are big and easy to find

The Matrix is offered in three different color patterns; a finished Walnut (tested here), a synthetic model with black polymer furniture, and a camo model featuring RT-MAX-7 wetland camouflage. All three finishes are also available in a 26-inch 20-gauge option for those looking for a lighter option.

Both options feature a 14.25-inch length of pull, and weigh in just over seven pounds with the 20-gauge models being about a 1/4 pound lighter. There appears to be a dovetail cut into the top of the receiver, though I couldn’t find an option for mounting anything to it.

Apart from the chokes included, there is also a different stock wedge you can use to adjust the angle of the buttstock. At the very rear you’ll find a soft rubber recoil pad for comfort.

the Matrix came with a set of chokes and wrench, as well as stock wedges

Matrix Features

Inertia Action
Oversized Operating Handle
Slam Button Bolt Release
Fiber Optic Sight
3 Chokes and Wrench (IC, M, F)
3-inch Chamber
28-inch Barrel
Ventilated Sight-Rib

Shooting the Tristar Matrix

To give the Matrix a good test, I figured we would put it to work on a case of clay targets. An afternoon and a case of shells ought to be enough to see what makes this Tristar shine. On a cool spring morning, my kids and I went up into the snow-covered Rocky Mountains. The cold breeze carried clay targets high into the blue sky and created that bobbing up and down while they flew.

We threw clays by hand, taking turns between throwing and shooting. Burning through a case of clay targets and box after box of ammunition. The handsome and curious walnut color shined beautifully in the afternoon sun.