Discover the TriStar Bristol SxS 16 Gauge Shotgun: A Classic Choice for Discerning Shooters

Are you an avid upland bird hunter seeking a shotgun that blends timeless elegance with modern reliability? Do you appreciate the heritage and craftsmanship of a classic side-by-side firearm, but demand performance that stands up to contemporary shooting demands? Or perhaps you're a collector looking for a functional work of art that can also perform admirably in the field or on the sporting clays course. If these questions resonate with you, then the TriStar Bristol SxS 16 Gauge Shotgun, model 38016, is a firearm engineered with your pursuits in mind.

The TriStar Bristol line is a testament to the enduring appeal of the side-by-side shotgun, delivering not just a tool for hunting or sport, but an experience rooted in tradition. This specific 16-gauge model, with its 28-inch blued and chrome-lined barrels and oiled Turkish Walnut stock, offers a compelling combination of aesthetic beauty and practical functionality. It’s designed for those who understand that a shotgun is more than just a piece of equipment; it's a companion for adventures and a cherished possession to be passed down through generations.

Why Choose a Side-by-Side (SxS) Shotgun?

For centuries, the side-by-side shotgun has been the quintessential choice for wingshooters and enthusiasts alike. What makes these firearms so enduringly popular?

• Classic Aesthetics: The iconic silhouette of a side-by-side shotgun evokes a sense of nostalgia and traditional sporting. Their graceful lines and open breach design are visually distinct and often preferred by purists.
• Balance and Handling: Many shooters find the balance of a well-made side-by-side to be exceptionally natural, facilitating quick and intuitive pointing. The often slimmer profile can make them feel nimble in the hands, especially beneficial when tracking fast-moving birds.
• Two Barrels, Two Chokes: The dual barrel design allows for the use of two different choke constrictions simultaneously, providing versatility for various shooting scenarios. For instance, you might use a more open choke for close-range shots and a tighter choke for longer distances, without needing to swap tubes.
• Reliability: The break-open action of a side-by-side is inherently simple and robust, offering exceptional reliability with fewer moving parts than semi-automatic or pump actions. This design is less prone to malfunctions in adverse conditions.
• Tradition and Heritage: Owning a side-by-side connects you to a rich history of wingshooting. They are often considered heirloom pieces, capable of being enjoyed and passed down through families.

The Enduring Appeal of the 16 Gauge Shotgun

In an era dominated by 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns, the 16 gauge often gets overlooked, yet it possesses unique characteristics that make it an outstanding choice for specific applications, particularly upland bird hunting. Sometimes referred to as the "Gentleman's Gauge," the 16 gauge strikes an ideal balance:

• The "Sweet Sixteen" Advantage: It offers a shot payload closer to a 12 gauge, but typically in a lighter, more nimble gun frame similar to a 20 gauge. This means you get excellent ballistic performance without the added bulk or recoil often associated with a full-size 12 gauge.
• Optimized for Upland Birds: For pheasants, grouse, quail, and woodcock, the 16 gauge delivers sufficient energy and pattern density to cleanly take birds without being overly destructive to the game meat.
• Reduced Recoil: While more powerful than a 20 gauge, the 16 gauge often feels softer shooting than a 12 gauge of comparable weight, leading to more comfortable extended shooting sessions.
• Distinctive Shooting Experience: Choosing a 16 gauge sets you apart, offering a unique blend of heritage and practical performance that experienced wingshooters truly appreciate.

The TriStar Bristol 16 Gauge leverages these advantages, providing a shotgun that feels lively in hand yet delivers decisive stopping power when needed.

Unpacking the TriStar Bristol 38016: Key Features and Benefits

The TriStar Bristol SxS 16 Gauge, with its distinct SKU 38016 and UPC 713780380162, is meticulously crafted to offer both aesthetic appeal and practical performance. Here's a detailed look at its standout features:

Exquisite Design and Craftsmanship

• Case Colored Receiver: One of the most striking features of the Bristol is its genuine case colored receiver. This traditional finishing process creates a beautiful, mottled pattern of blues, purples, browns, and grays, making each firearm truly unique. It’s not just visually stunning; it also provides a durable surface, adding to the gun's longevity and classic appeal. The precision laser engraving further enhances its sophisticated appearance, highlighting TriStar's commitment to detailed artistry.
• True Steel Frame: Unlike some firearms that might cut corners, the Bristol is built on a solid, true steel frame. This foundation ensures exceptional strength, durability, and a lifetime of reliable performance. It contributes to the overall balance and solid feel of the shotgun in hand, a crucial factor for consistent shooting.
• Oiled Turkish Walnut Stock: The "English Style" stock is crafted from select Turkish Walnut, renowned for its beautiful grain patterns and rich color variations. The oil finish allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through and provides a warm, tactile feel that only improves with age and handling. An English stock, characterized by its straight grip, offers a classic look and can facilitate quicker hand positioning for some shooters.

Optimized Performance in the Field

• 28-Inch Blued, Chrome-Lined Barrels: The 28-inch barrels are an ideal length for a versatile field gun, offering a good balance between swing speed for fast-flushing birds and sufficient sight radius for accurate long-range shots. The blued finish is a classic, durable treatment that protects the steel from corrosion. Crucially, the barrels are chrome-lined. This feature is a significant advantage for any active shooter, providing superior protection against wear and corrosion from repeated firing and the elements. Chrome lining makes cleaning much easier, as powder and plastic residue are less likely to stick, extending the life of the barrel and maintaining accuracy.
• Auto Ejectors: For speed and convenience in the field, the Bristol comes standard with automatic ejectors. After firing, these ejectors forcefully expel spent shells from the chambers, allowing for rapid reloading and maintaining focus on the hunt. This feature is highly valued by experienced shooters who demand efficient operation.
• Beretta Mobil Choke System: Versatility is key in a hunting shotgun, and the inclusion of five Beretta Mobil chokes (Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full) provides immense adaptability. This allows shooters to optimize their pattern density for various targets and distances. Whether you're shooting close-quarters quail or high-flying pheasants, you can quickly change chokes to match the conditions, ensuring consistent and effective shots. The MobilChoke system is widely recognized and respected, making it easy to find additional or replacement chokes if ever needed.
• Brass Bead Front Sight: A simple yet effective brass bead front sight provides a clear, highly visible aiming point, especially in varying light conditions. This traditional sight system is intuitive for wingshooting, allowing the shooter to focus on the target rather than complex aiming mechanisms.
• Selective Top Tang Safety: The top tang safety is conveniently located and easily accessible for both right and left-handed shooters, allowing for quick and safe operation in the field. Its selective nature means you can choose which barrel fires first, adding another layer of tactical control.
• Single Selective Trigger: The TriStar Bristol features a single selective trigger, a modern convenience on a classic platform. This allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first with a simple selector mechanism, typically integrated into the safety or tang. This feature simplifies the shooting process and enhances the gun's adaptability to different hunting or clay shooting scenarios.

Ideal Applications for the TriStar Bristol 16 Gauge (Model 38016)

The TriStar Bristol SxS 16 Gauge is a versatile firearm perfectly suited for a range of activities:

• Upland Bird Hunting: This is arguably where the TriStar Bristol shines brightest. Its light weight, excellent balance, and the effective patterning of the 16 gauge make it an exceptional choice for pursuing pheasant, grouse, quail, chukar, and other upland game birds. The quick handling and ease of carry make long days in the field more enjoyable and productive.
• Sporting Clays and Skeet: While a dedicated clays gun might be different, the Bristol can certainly hold its own on the sporting clays or skeet range. Its quick handling and multi-choke system allow shooters to practice and enjoy these disciplines, honing their skills with a classic firearm. The auto ejectors facilitate efficient shooting rounds.
• Collector's Piece / Heirloom: For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and classic firearms, the TriStar Bristol is more than just a tool; it's a piece of art. Its case-colored receiver, Turkish walnut, and traditional design make it a beautiful addition to any collection, destined to be admired and passed down through generations. It represents a tangible connection to the rich history of shotguns.

Maintaining Your TriStar Bristol SxS

Like any fine firearm, the TriStar Bristol 16 Gauge will benefit from regular care and maintenance to ensure its longevity and continued performance. After each use, especially in the field, it's recommended to:

• Clean Barrels: Use a bore brush and patches with appropriate cleaning solvent, followed by a light coat of gun oil, particularly important for the chrome-lined barrels which are easier to clean.
• Wipe Down Exterior: Remove any dirt, moisture, or fingerprints from the metal and wood surfaces. A silicone-treated cloth is excellent for preventing rust and preserving the finish.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a small amount of gun oil to pivot points, hinge pins, and the action to ensure smooth operation.
• Proper Storage: Store the shotgun unloaded in a secure, climate-controlled environment, ideally in a gun safe or cabinet, to protect it from theft, damage, and environmental factors.

Adhering to these simple steps will ensure that your TriStar Bristol remains a reliable and beautiful firearm for many years to come.

Why the TriStar Bristol 38016 Stands Out

When considering a new shotgun, particularly a side-by-side, the TriStar Bristol 16 Gauge offers a compelling value proposition:

• Exceptional Value: It delivers features and aesthetic quality often found in much higher-priced firearms, making traditional side-by-side ownership accessible.
• Reliability You Can Trust: Built on a true steel frame with chrome-lined barrels and auto ejectors, this shotgun is engineered for consistent, trouble-free performance in demanding conditions.
• Versatility for All Seasons: With its included Beretta Mobil chokes and balanced handling, it adapts seamlessly from the open fields for upland birds to challenging clays courses.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The stunning case-colored receiver and select Turkish walnut stock ensure this isn't just a functional tool, but a source of pride and admiration.

Whether you're looking to rekindle a passion for traditional wingshooting, add a classic firearm to your collection, or simply own a shotgun that performs as beautifully as it looks, the TriStar Bristol SxS 16 Gauge is an outstanding choice that truly delivers on its promise of beauty, elegance, and performance. You can find this exceptional firearm, including the specific model 38016, available at reputable firearms retailers like DEGuns.

TriStar Bristol SxS 16 Gauge Specifications

Feature	Detail	Benefit
Brand	TriStar	Known for reliable, quality firearms.
Model	Bristol	Elegant side-by-side series.
Gauge	16 Gauge	Ideal balance of power and handling.
Capacity	2 Rounds	Standard for break-open SxS.
Barrel Length	28 Inches	Versatile for field and clays.
Barrel Finish	Blued	Classic, durable finish.
Barrel Lining	Chrome Lined	Increased durability, easy cleaning.
Chamber	2.75"	Accommodates standard 16ga shells.
Choke System	Beretta MobilChoke	Widely recognized, reliable.
Chokes Included	SK, IC, M, IM, F (5)	Comprehensive versatility.
Stock Material	Turkish Walnut	Premium wood with beautiful grain.
Stock Finish	Oiled	Natural feel, enhances wood beauty.
Stock Style	English Style	Traditional straight grip.
Receiver Material	Steel	Robust and durable construction.
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened	Unique, traditional, beautiful.
Sights	Brass Bead Front	Clear, intuitive aiming point.
Action	Break Open	Simple, reliable, easy to inspect.
Safety	Top Tang	Convenient, easily accessible.
Trigger	Single Selective	Modern control for barrel choice.
Ejectors	Auto Ejectors	Fast, efficient spent shell removal.
Hand	Right Hand	Designed for right-handed shooters.
Application	Field	Optimized for hunting and sport.
SKU	38016	Unique product identifier.
UPC	713780380162	Universal Product Code.
MPN	38016	Manufacturer Part Number.