Industry Insiders: 2021's Best New Shotgun is Tristar's Bristol SxS

The National Association of Sporting Good Wholesalers Expo granted this side-by-side shotgun its "High Caliber" award.

by posted on November 3, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Tristar Bristol Nasgw

There's really nothing in the world quite like a well-balanced side-by-side shotgun; ideal for wingshooting and clay games, this elegant and classic design is often thought of as the province of the wealthy. TriStar Arms set out to change that with its line of Bristol side-by-side scatterguns, which offer luxury form and function without breaking the bank. What's more, America's firearms industry insiders are even more excited about the Bristol SxS than they are about more modern "tactical" shotguns. The proof comes in the form of an "insider" award called the NASGW Caliber Award.

What's NASGW? Well, it's a trade show called the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) Expo, and it's normally not open to consumers. Each year, America's wholesalers and outdoor writers (represented by a group known as the Professional Outdoor Media Association) celebrate the "highest caliber" new products of the year that's just concluded. The NASGW Caliber Award for Best New Shotgun was selected by an independent panel of 18 media and wholesaler professionals. 

The reasons for which the Bristol SxS was chosen are obvious. Available in an English walnut stock with either color case-hardened or silver receiver, this nimble shotgun is perfect for bird-hunting with a 28-inch barrel and gorgeous balance. Built on a true steel frame, the Bristol SxS comes with five Beretta-style choke tubes (SK, IC, M, IM, F). It boasts a selective top tang safety with a left-right barrel selector in the center, brass bead front sight and a single selective trigger. Initially rolled out in four chamberings (12 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge and .410 bore), the Bristol SxS has a new 16-gauge version joining the lineup now. 

"We are honored to receive such a prestigious award," said Ryan Bader, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, "TriStar has always strived to deliver well-built, quality products that bring value to the customer. The Bristol SxS is elegant, dependable but most importantly, affordable."

MSRPs from $1,100 to $1,130; tristararms.com

 

Latest

Marcus Gettysburg Ginnie Wade National Park Service Image
Marcus Gettysburg Ginnie Wade National Park Service Image

Gettysburg: Remembering The Women Who Served

While we celebrate the anniversary of the independence of our country this Fourth of July, it is also the anniversary of another major event in American history. Despite a ban on women serving in either army, some felt a call to fight in the Civil War.

Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary with a Bang

You only get to call it a semiquincentennial once, so many gun makers are creatively displaying their American pride with these limited-edition firearms. Check out a few of them here.

Why You Should Call the Police Anytime You Draw Your Gun in Defense

If you pull your gun and the bad guy runs away, great. But you still need to call the police and report what happened. Here’s why.

New Gear 2026: GTM Original Expands The Avenue Collection

The satchels are crafted from USA top-grain cowhide and distressed buffalo leather, offering a refined blend of fashion, function and personality.

SLG2, Inc. and Walk The Talk America Unite to Advance Firearm Safety

The partnership will provide practical resources that encourage safe firearm handling, secure storage and meaningful conversations surrounding mental health.

The Armed Citizen® Reload June 26, 2026

The law was on a woman's side quite literally all the time, which didn't end well for her ex-cop boyfriend.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.