The TriStar Cobra III Compact Pump 20 Gauge 24″ Vent Rib is a purpose-built field shotgun that shrinks the learning curve for younger shooters without sacrificing adult utility. Chambered in 20 gauge, it pairs a 24-inch vent-rib barrel with a fixed synthetic stock and fiber-optic front sight for fast, intuitive target acquisition. The removable choke system uses Beretta/Benelli-style Mobil threads and ships with multiple tubes, letting you dial in patterns from dove loads to turkey magnums. At $450.72, this pump delivers reliable cycling and a compact length of pull that fits smaller frames—making it a practical choice for upland hunts, range days, and introducing new shooters to the sport.
| Manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Cobra III Compact |
| Material | Synthetic stock and forend |
| Compatibility | 20 Gauge 2.75″ and 3″ shells |
| Finish | Matte black synthetic |
| Weight | Approximately 5.8 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Compact 24″ vent-rib barrel — The shorter barrel keeps the overall length manageable for smaller shooters, while the vent rib reduces mirage and provides a crisp sight plane for sustained lead on flying targets.
- Fiber-optic front sight — A bright red fiber-optic bead grabs light for instant alignment, eliminating the guesswork of a plain bead in low-light field conditions.
- Beretta/Benelli-style Mobil choke system — Ships with Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder tubes so you can swap patterns for clays, pheasants, or rabbits without a gunsmith visit.
- Fixed synthetic field stock — The one-piece stock and forend resist moisture and dings, and the shorter length of pull (13.5″ per TriStar specs) fits youth shooters or anyone needing a compact LOP.
- Rubber recoil pad and sling swivel studs — The pad tames 20-gauge recoil further, and the studs let you attach a sling for hands-free carry through brush or between stations.
Who It’s For
The Cobra III Compact targets three groups: first-time shotgun buyers looking for a reliable pump without the premium price tag, parents outfitting teenage hunters for upland or small-game seasons, and experienced shooters who want a lightweight backup gun for truck or ATV duty. The 20-gauge chambering and compact stock make it especially effective for smaller-framed shooters who struggle with full-size 12-gauge pumps.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: The Mobil choke system gives you three tuneable patterns out of the box—no need to buy extra tubes for basic loads.
- Pro: At roughly 5.8 pounds, it’s light enough for a day-long walk behind a dog but still cycles 3″ magnums reliably.
- Pro: The synthetic stock shrugs off rain, mud, and scratches, ideal for a truck gun that sees hard use.
- Con: The fixed stock isn’t adjustable for length of pull or cast-on/cast-off, so taller shooters may find the 13.5″ LOP too short for a proper cheek weld.
Comparison: Cobra III vs. Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870
| Feature | TriStar Cobra III Compact | Mossberg 500 Super Bantam | Remington 870 Express Compact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge | 20 Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 24″ | 22″ | 21″ |
| Stock | Fixed synthetic | Adjustable synthetic | Fixed synthetic |
| Choke System | Mobil (Beretta/Benelli) | Accu-Choke | Rem Choke |
| Weight | 5.8 lbs | 6.0 lbs | 5.5 lbs |
| Price (approx.) | $450.72 | $480 | $500 |
The Cobra III undercuts both competitors on price while offering a longer barrel for better swing weight—ideal for shooters who want a 24″ vent-rib without paying for an adjustable stock they won’t use.
FAQ
What is the length of pull on the TriStar Cobra III Compact?
The fixed synthetic stock has a 13.5-inch length of pull, per TriStar specs. This suits youth shooters ages 12–16 and smaller adults. If you need a longer LOP, consider an aftermarket recoil pad spacer or look at the standard Cobra III model with a 14.25″ LOP.
Does the Cobra III Compact come with choke tubes?
Yes, it ships with three Beretta/Benelli-style Mobil choke tubes: Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder. The barrel accepts any standard Mobil-thread choke, so you can swap in turkey or extended tubes from brands like Carlson’s or Patternmaster.
Can this shotgun cycle 3-inch magnum shells?
Absolutely. The receiver and bolt are built for 2.75″ and 3″ 20-gauge shells. The pump action handles heavy field loads without issue, though you’ll want to break it in with a few boxes of high-brass loads to smooth the action.
Is the TriStar Cobra III Compact suitable for left-handed shooters?
The Cobra III is a right-handed pump with the ejection port on the right side. Left-handed shooters can operate it—the safety is a cross-bolt button at the trigger guard—but they’ll get ejected shells across their line of sight. A left-handed model is not offered in this compact configuration.
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Last updated: April 2026
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