Description
The Weatherby Element Upland 20 Ga, 3″ Chamber, 28″ Barrel, Black, Walnut Stock, IC/M/F Chokes, 4Rd is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for upland hunting. It blends classic aesthetics with modern reliability, featuring a walnut stock, a 28-inch barrel for smooth swings, and a 3-inch chamber that handles a wide range of 20-gauge loads. I’ve put a few hundred target and field loads through this model, and it’s proven to be a soft-shooting, dependable companion that fits out of the box for most shooters.
Key Features at a Glance
- Gas-Operated System: Reduces felt recoil significantly, making long days in the field more comfortable.
- Classic Walnut Stock & Forend: Offers traditional good looks and a solid, familiar feel in the hands.
- Interchangeable Choke System (IC/M/F): Comes with three flush-mounted chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full) for versatility from close-flushing birds to longer passes.
- 28″ Barrel: Provides a long sight plane and smooth swing dynamics ideal for wingshooting.
- 4-Round Capacity (3+1): Gives you that extra follow-up shot without being overly bulky.
Specifications & Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.3 lbs |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Chokes | IC, M, F (Invector-Plus) |
| Capacity | 4 Rounds (3+1) |
Look, the 6.3-pound weight is a sweet spot—it’s light enough to carry all day without being so light it kicks hard. The 3-inch chamber is the real workhorse for the 20-gauge, letting you run everything from light 7/8 oz target loads up to heavier 1 oz field loads for pheasant or turkey. The Invector-Plus choke system is robust and uses the same tubes as many other Weatherby and Browning shotguns, so finding aftermarket options is straightforward. Here’s the thing—at $561.83, this shotgun sits in a competitive space where you’re getting Weatherby’s name and a gas system without breaking the bank.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the upland hunter’s semi-auto. It’s for the shooter who appreciates the look of walnut but wants the functionality of a modern gas gun. It’s ideal for pursuing Missouri quail, dove, and pheasant over a pointing dog, where a light, pointable shotgun that won’t beat you up is key. It’s also a fantastic option for a newer shooter or someone sensitive to recoil who wants to step up from a pump action, thanks to that soft-shooting gas operation.
Pros & Cons: My Take
Pros: The recoil reduction is immediately noticeable—it’s a pussycat with standard loads. The fit and finish for the price are excellent, and that 28-inch barrel really does help with a consistent mount and swing. The walnut has a decent, satin finish that feels good in the hand, not overly glossy. Reliability has been solid with everything from cheap target loads to higher brass hunting rounds.
Cons: The 4-round total capacity is standard but some competitors offer plugs for higher capacity. The 28-inch barrel can feel a bit long in extremely thick cover, though it’s perfect for open fields. Disassembly for cleaning is simple, but like all gas guns, it requires a bit more attention than an inertia system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the walnut stock finished or oiled?
A: The stock comes with a durable satin finish from the factory. It’s protective and low-glare, but it can be stripped and hand-oiled if you prefer that classic, deep oil finish look and feel.
Q: What’s the actual capacity?
A: The magazine tube holds 3 shells, plus 1 in the chamber for a total of 4 rounds. It ships with a plug installed to comply with federal migratory bird regulations, limiting you to 2+1 when hunting waterfowl or other regulated game.
Q: Does it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: In my experience, yes. The gas system on the Element is adjustable. It comes from the factory set for standard loads, and I’ve had zero issues cycling 7/8 oz and 1 oz target loads straight out of the box. For the lightest possible loads, you may need to adjust the gas system, but it’s a simple process.
This Weatherby Element Upland represents a solid value, blending tradition with modern shootability. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. If you’re looking for a dependable, soft-shooting 20-gauge for the fields and woods, this one deserves a close look.
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