Introduction
The crisp air of a fall morning, the anticipation that hangs in the woods, and the satisfying flush of a covey of quail – these are the moments that hunters live for. In the world of upland bird hunting, the choice of shotgun is paramount. The right gauge, the right action, and the right fit can be the difference between a successful hunt and a day of missed opportunities. While high-end shotguns often dominate the conversation, there’s a growing demand for reliable, accessible firearms that don’t break the bank. This is where the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge comes into the picture. This article will delve into the details of this popular shotgun, exploring its features, performance, and suitability for various shooting applications, with a focus on what makes it a worthy companion for the hunter seeking a practical and affordable option.
Understanding the Tristar Setter Series
Tristar is a firearms manufacturer that has carved a niche for itself in the market by offering quality shotguns at competitive prices. The Setter series specifically represents a line of over-and-under shotguns known for their value and versatility. Designed with the hunter and recreational shooter in mind, the Setter series aims to provide a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience without the premium price tag of more established brands. The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge, in particular, has gained a following for its suitability in lighter loads and handling, making it a comfortable choice for long days in the field. The line offers a range of configurations, including different barrel lengths and stock materials, ensuring that shooters can find a model that suits their preferences and needs.
The target audience for the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is broad. It appeals to both experienced hunters looking for a budget-friendly option and new shooters seeking a reliable and easy-to-handle shotgun for upland hunting or recreational shooting. The lightweight design and comfortable ergonomics make it a good choice for those new to over-and-under shotguns, while the robust construction and consistent performance provide a trustworthy tool for seasoned sportsmen and women.
Examining Key Features and Specifications of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is, at its core, a shotgun chambered for the popular 20-gauge cartridge. The use of the 20-gauge makes it lighter and more comfortable to handle than its 12-gauge counterparts, reducing fatigue during long hunts. The action type is predominantly an over-and-under, offering the traditional elegance and balance that many shooters appreciate. The over-and-under design also provides the benefit of quick follow-up shots, a critical advantage in the fast-paced world of bird hunting.
The barrel is crucial for the overall performance. The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge typically offers barrel lengths ranging from around to provide versatility for different shooting scenarios. The longer barrels contribute to greater accuracy and a more consistent shot pattern at longer distances, while the shorter barrels are favored in thick cover for quicker target acquisition. The barrels are usually chrome-lined for durability and resistance to wear.
Choke options are key to a shotgun’s versatility, and the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge often comes with a set of interchangeable chokes. These chokes allow shooters to tailor their shot patterns to the specific hunting situation. Typical included chokes might include improved cylinder, modified, and full, which allow for varying pattern density at different ranges. This is very important because this allows the user to adjust the gun for the type of bird and the cover that they will be hunting in.
The receiver and frame of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge are typically made of steel or a durable alloy, providing strength and longevity. The finish on the receiver may vary, with models featuring blued steel for a classic look or more modern finishes that improve resistance to corrosion. The frame design typically includes attractive detailing, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
The stock and forend contribute significantly to the feel of the gun. The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge usually features either a walnut stock or a synthetic stock. Walnut stocks provide a classic, attractive look and feel, with the potential for custom shaping, while synthetic stocks offer greater resistance to weather and require less maintenance. The ergonomics of the stock are important to provide comfortable shouldering and aiming.
The sights on the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge are usually a simple bead sight, which is a standard for over-and-under shotguns. The bead sight provides a quick and instinctive aiming point, which works well for shooting fast-moving targets.
The weight and overall dimensions of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge are designed for a balance of maneuverability and stability. The lighter weight, characteristic of the 20-gauge, contributes to ease of carry, making it a joy to carry in the field, while the overall length provides good balance.
Safety features are paramount. The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge includes a safety selector located on the tang, which is easily accessible for both right- and left-handed shooters. The safety blocks the trigger, preventing accidental firing, and a barrel selector allows the shooter to choose which barrel to fire first.
The trigger plays a vital role in both accuracy and comfort. The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge typically features a single trigger design, meaning that a single pull of the trigger will fire both barrels. The trigger pull weight is typically reasonable, providing a crisp and predictable break.
Performance and Handling: Putting the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge to the Test
When it comes to the shooting experience, the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge shines as a comfortable and manageable firearm. The reduced recoil compared to a 12-gauge makes it suitable for shooters of all sizes and experience levels, allowing for longer shooting sessions without fatigue. The gun points naturally, making it easy to acquire targets quickly and effectively.
The accuracy and pattern performance of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge depend largely on the choice of choke and ammunition. With the proper chokes and ammunition, the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge can achieve effective patterns out to a respectable range. The interchangeable chokes allow the shooter to adapt to different shooting scenarios, whether it is close-range shots in thick brush or longer-range shots over open fields.
The ease of use and handling are significant advantages. The over-and-under action is generally easy to operate, and the lightweight design allows for effortless handling in the field. Whether you’re walking miles in search of birds or spending an afternoon on the range, the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is an easy and enjoyable gun to shoot.
Reliability is another factor that contributes to the overall appeal of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge. Owners often report consistent performance with minimal malfunctions. Proper maintenance and care, like all firearms, are important for maintaining the reliability of the gun.
The ergonomics of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge are designed for comfort and control. The stock design and overall balance facilitate comfortable shouldering and a natural shooting stance. The well-contoured forend provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. This results in an enjoyable experience while hunting and shooting at clay.
Exploring the Uses and Applications of the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is a versatile shotgun suited for a wide range of applications.
In the realm of hunting, the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is an excellent choice for a variety of upland birds. It is well-suited for hunting quail, grouse, woodcock, and other smaller game birds, where its lighter weight and manageable recoil are huge benefits. The 20-gauge is also a good choice for hunting rabbits, squirrels, and other small game. The available barrel lengths and interchangeable chokes can be matched to the specific type of game and hunting environment.
While the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is primarily geared towards hunting and target shooting, its suitability for home defense requires very careful consideration. It’s always essential to understand and adhere to all local and federal laws regarding the use of firearms. If used for home defense, proper training is extremely critical.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge offers several advantages. It is often praised for its affordability, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters. Its lightweight design and manageable recoil make it comfortable to shoot, particularly for those new to shotguns or those who prefer not to shoulder the heavier 12-gauge. It is a reliable gun which allows for hours of enjoyment in the field.
There are some potential drawbacks to consider as well. While it’s typically well-constructed, the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge might not have the same level of refinement in terms of wood quality or internal components as higher-end shotguns.
Comparing to the Competition
When considering the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge, it’s important to compare it to other shotguns in the same price range. Competitors include shotguns from brands like Stevens, Yildiz, and other budget-friendly manufacturers. While the specific features and qualities vary from model to model, the Tristar Setter 20 Gauge offers a compelling combination of features, reliability, and value, often making it an excellent choice.
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge has a reputation for offering a good combination of quality and affordability, giving it an edge over many of its rivals.
Pricing and Availability
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is generally known to have a great value proposition. The MSRP is competitive and varies depending on the specific model. It’s widely available through online retailers, gun stores, and other firearms dealers. This widespread availability makes it easy to find and purchase.
Conclusion: A Final Assessment
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge offers a compelling package for hunters and shooters who are seeking a reliable, affordable over-and-under shotgun. With its manageable recoil, solid construction, and versatile design, it provides a positive shooting experience, making it an excellent choice for upland hunting and recreational shooting. It’s a great option for someone looking for a new gun.
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge is a good buy for hunters and shooters of all experience levels. It is a firearm that will provide reliable performance in the field, and this alone makes it an excellent option for many people.
Final Thoughts
The Tristar Setter 20 Gauge proves that quality and value can coexist. It is a great gun that can be added to the collection of any shooter.
