We have come to expect shotgun introductions every year from value expert TriStar. However, after the deluge of new models in 2024, it would have been easy for them to cruise through 2025 without any such announcements.
Yet, here we are, in TriStar’s booth at SHOT Show 2025 in Las Vegas with – you guessed it – a considerably overhauled shotgun introduction featuring a second-generation Raptor. But there’s more, because TriStar is also doubling down on handguns with two new pistol offerings: the Protégé X Sub Compact and APOC.
Meet the Raptor II
TriStar’s pocketbook-friendly semi-automatic shotgun stable gets a full-service makeover for 2025. The gas-operated Raptor family is morphing into a second generation with the Raptor II. The Raptor II aims to continue its role in blending reliability and affordability, with a refreshed dose of both esthetics and practicality thrown in for good measure.
The stock and forearm have been redesigned into a sleeker look and more comfortable ergonomics. The recoil pad has been swapped out for one that is both softer and advertised to absorb more of the kick. Both the operating handle and bolt release have been upsized, which is in keeping with the trend toward oversized controls that are popular on hunting shotguns now. It’s more useful for hunters who are often wearing gloves during operation.
The chrome-lined barrel and chamber remain from the original, along with Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes. The tubular magazine’s shot plug can be quickly and easily removed by unscrewing the magazine cap. A fiber-optic sight has now been added to all variants as well.
Speaking of variants, the Raptor II is filling out quite a roster, with three separate styles and purposes. There will be 12- and 20-gauge options, along with a youth-specific selection. All three variants will also be available in a 20-gauge compact version with a shorter 24-inch barrel.
Why II?
According to company President Ryan Bader, “The Raptor II is a testament to TriStar’s commitment to delivering quality firearms at an affordable price. It’s designed for shooters who demand reliability and performance without compromising value. Whether you’re hunting, clay shooting, or just enjoying the outdoors, the Raptor II is built to exceed expectations.”
To be fair, there was nothing really “wrong” with earlier versions of the Raptor. In fact, that one won’t be disappearing. While Raptor II variants will begin shipping soon, it’s worth noting that Tristar’s first-generation Raptors will remain cataloged, at least for the foreseeable future.
The improvements made during the shotgun’s remodel, on the other hand, are too nice to ignore for buyers in the market for one of the most affordable repeaters out there.
Raptor Variants in 2025
Raptor II Synthetic: With an MSRP set at $489, the all-black synthetic version marks the most affordable entry into the second-generation autoloader:
- 12 gauge/28-inch barrel/7.1 pounds
- 20 gauge/26-inch barrel/6.9 pounds
Raptor II Walnut: It’s nice to see hardwood furniture remain on an affordably priced repeating shotgun. The Raptor II Walnut will ship in two SKUs at the moment and is looking attractive for clays, upland hunting, or all-around use:
- 12 gauge /28-inch barrel /7.1 pounds
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20 gauge /28-inch barrel /7.1 pounds
Raptor II Camo: The Raptor family has long been popular with hunters, and there’s little doubt that it will continue with this second-generation gun. The Raptor II Camo comes fully covered – buttstock to muzzle – in Mossy Oak’s Country Roots pattern, along with contrasting black panels. These guns look and feel the part of an accessible waterfowl number or handy camouflaged tool:
- 12 gauge/28-inch barrel /7.1 pounds
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20 gauge/28-inch barrel /7.0 pounds
TriStar Has Pistols, Too?
As hunters, our main focus today falls squarely on TriStar’s contributions to the hunting market. While the shotgun specialist hits that target with the Raptor II, the company also shows its ability to diversify.
In fact, TriStar’s SHOT Show booth, though clearly dominated by scatterguns, held a growing pistol display laying out samples of its semi-auto handguns.
Related: TriStar Has 2 New 9mm Pistol Lines for 2025
Stay tuned to other Guns.com coverage for more on the new Protégé X Sub Compact and APOC, both 9mm semi-automatics. While Tristar’s scatterguns are built in Turkey, the company has partnered with Metro Arms, American Classic, and SPS for the import of its earlier pistol models.
