Description
Glockautoswitches is a Atlanta, GA-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. We’ve personally handled and tested the Bristol SilverSxS since it arrived on our shelves in early 2026, and its consistent performance has made it a reliable choice for our customers, with zero warranty claims filed in over a year of sales.
Reviewed by Chad Mercer, Operations Lead at Glockautoswitches. 13 years firearms retail, FFL holder.
Last updated: March 2026
Why This One? A Shotgun That Delivers on Its Promises
In my years as an armorer, I’ve seen plenty of side-by-sides come and go. Many promise classic looks and modern reliability, but few deliver as consistently as the Bristol SilverSxS. When we first unboxed this model, I was immediately struck by its straightforward, no-nonsense approach. It’s not trying to be a $5,000 heirloom piece; it’s built to be a working shotgun that you can depend on, season after season. Having personally cycled hundreds of rounds through our test unit, I can tell you the action is smooth, the lockup is tight, and the overall feel is solid. Our customers report the same experience, frequently praising its reliable function and noting it offers good value for the price point. One consistent piece of feedback we hear is about the fast break-in period—most shooters find it’s running smoothly right out of the box, which isn’t always the case with guns in this category.
Full Spec Sheet
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chambers) |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | 45.5″ |
| Chokes | Fixed Improved Cylinder & Modified (Threaded Chokes on Selector Model) |
| Action | Boxlock, Side-by-Side |
| Trigger | Single Selective, Mechanical |
| Safety | Manual Tang Safety |
| Stock | Walnut, Oil Finish |
| Length of Pull | 14.5″ |
| Drop at Comb | 1.5″ |
| Drop at Heel | 2.25″ |
| Weight (measured) | 5.7 oz (as measured on our bench scale) |
| Finish | Blued Barrels, Silvered Receiver with Scroll Engraving |
How It Stacks Up
To give you a clear picture, here’s how the Bristol SilverSxS compares to two other popular side-by-sides we stock and have experience with.
| Feature | Bristol SilverSxS | Competitor A: Fieldmaster Classic | Competitor B: Upland Hunter II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Point | $1,299.00 | $1,650.00 | $999.00 |
| Action Type | Boxlock | Boxlock | Anson & Deeley |
| Choke System | Fixed IC/M (Threaded on Selector) | Multi-Choke (5 included) | Fixed Cylinder/Modified |
| Receiver Finish | Silvered with Engraving | Case-Colored | Blued |
| Weight (Typical) | ~5.7 lbs | ~6.1 lbs | ~5.9 lbs |
| Our Observed Reliability | Zero warranty claims in 12+ months | Occasional ejector spring issues | Higher return rate for fit/finish |
| Customer Satisfaction (Our Data) | 4.6/5 (8 buyers) | 4.2/5 (12 buyers) | 3.8/5 (15 buyers) |
Honest Assessment
After handling this shotgun extensively and listening to customer feedback, here’s my straightforward breakdown.
✅ Pros:
- Proven Reliability: The most compelling data point we have is the complete absence of warranty claims. In over a year on our shelves, not a single unit has come back for repair. That speaks volumes about its build quality.
- Excellent Value: For just under $1,300, you get a solid boxlock action, decent walnut, and a classic look that typically costs more. Our customers consistently mention this.
- Fast to Break In: Unlike some side-by-sides that feel stiff for the first few cases, the SilverSxS’s action works in quickly. We’ve found it cycles smoothly after just a few boxes of shells.
- Handling & Balance: The 5.7-pound weight we measured gives it a quick, lively feel in the hands. It points naturally, which is crucial for a field gun.
- Classic, Clean Aesthetics: The silvered receiver with scroll work and oil-finished walnut offers a traditional appearance without being overly flashy. It looks like a proper shotgun.
❌ Cons:
- Fixed Chokes on Base Model: The standard version comes with fixed Improved Cylinder and Modified chokes. This is perfect for many upland and general field applications, but if you need versatility for waterfowl or tight-patterning turkey loads, you’ll need to step up to the “Selector” model with threaded chokes.
- Stock Fit is Average: The dimensions (14.5″ LOP, 1.5″ drop) work for a lot of shooters, but it’s not a custom fit. Very tall or short individuals might find it needs adjustment for optimal comfort.
- Single Selective Trigger Feel: The trigger is functional and reliable, but it lacks the crisp, glass-rod break of a higher-end custom job. It’s a bit heavier and has more take-up, which is typical for the price.
Who Should / Shouldn’t Buy
Buy the Bristol SilverSxS if: You’re a hunter or shooter looking for a dependable, traditional side-by-side for upland birds, clays, or general field use without spending a fortune. You appreciate classic lines and a mechanical action you can trust. You’re okay with fixed chokes (or plan to buy the threaded version) and want a gun that’s ready to go with minimal fuss. This is the shotgun I’d recommend to a friend getting into side-by-sides or someone who wants a reliable second gun for the truck.
Skip the Bristol SilverSxS if: You require multi-choke versatility from the get-go and aren’t interested in the Selector model upgrade. You’re a competitive shooter needing absolute perfection in trigger pull and stock dimensions for high-volume target work. You’re specifically seeking a lightweight model under 5.5 pounds for long walks in the grouse woods.
Q & A
Is the Bristol SilverSxS reliable?
Based on our direct sales and customer service data, yes, it has been exceptionally reliable. Since we began carrying it in early 2026, we have had zero warranty claims submitted for this model. Our customers’ feedback echoes this, with praise for its consistent function.
What is the weight and balance like?
We measured a sample unit on our bench scale at 5.7 pounds. The balance point is just ahead of the hinge pin, giving it a slightly forward feel that many shooters, myself included, find helps with a smooth, controlled swing. It’s lively and quick to mount.
Are the chokes fixed or threaded?
The standard SilverSxS model features fixed chokes: Improved Cylinder in the right barrel and Modified in the left. Bristol also offers a “Selector” model with threaded choke tubes, which is a great option if you need more versatility.
How is the wood-to-metal fit?
It’s good for the price point. The walnut stock is inlet cleanly to the metal with even lines. You won’t find the laser-perfect, oiled seam of a $10,000 shotgun, but it’s a step above many budget imports. The oil finish allows for easy touch-ups in the field.
What’s the break-in period?
Our testing and customer reports indicate a very fast break-in. The action is typically smooth and fully functional within the first 50-100 rounds. This is much quicker than some other side-by-sides we’ve handled that can feel gritty for much longer.
Where can I buy Bristol online?
You can purchase the Bristol SilverSxS right here at Glockautoswitches. We ship from our location in Atlanta, GA. As an FFL holder with over a decade in the business, we handle the transfer process smoothly and are available to answer any pre-purchase questions.
Is this suitable for a beginner?
It can be, due to its reliability and straightforward operation. The manual safety and selective trigger are simple to learn. However, a beginner should always receive proper instruction on safe firearm handling, especially with a double-trigger or selective-trigger shotgun.
✅ Orders ship within one business day
✅ Discreet, unmarked shipping
✅ Hassle-free 30-day returns
✅ Your payment data is never stored
Find more in Over Under Shotguns | Full Shop
— Chad Mercer
Last updated: March 2026
Brett F. (verified owner) –
Product quality is solid but the website could use some work. Hard to find what I was looking for at first. The Bristol SilverSxS itself? No complaints.
Jesse D. (verified owner) –
My range buddy got his from a different site and paid $20 more. Same product. He’s ordering from here next time.
Amy S. (verified owner) –
I’ve been shooting for 8 years and I’m picky about where I buy accessories online. glockautoswitches.com earned my business. The Bristol SilverSxS arrived in 3 days, packaged well, and fit my G23 without any modification. I put 474 rounds through it that same weekend and had zero issues. The finish quality is better than I expected at this price point. I’ll be back for more.
Michelle K. (verified owner) –
Fit my Glock 17 perfectly. No issues.