Description
The Weatherby 18i Waterfowler 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3.5″, Realtree Max-5, 2rd is a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun engineered for the demanding conditions of waterfowl and turkey hunting. It features a reliable inertia-driven system, a durable 28-inch barrel for long-range patterning, and comes ready in Realtree Max-5 camouflage. This shotgun is designed to handle 3.5-inch magnum shells for maximum knockdown power, making it a serious tool for serious hunters who face tough birds and foul weather.
Key Features
- Inertia-Driven Reliability: The 18i system is known for its simple, clean operation that cycles everything from light target loads to punishing 3.5-inch magnums without adjustment.
- 28″ Barrel with Extended Chokes: Provides a long sight plane and optimal swing for pass shooting. Includes three extended choke tubes (F, M, IC) for patterning versatility.
- Realtree Max-5 Camo: Full coverage camouflage on the synthetic stock and forend breaks up your outline in marsh and timber environments.
- 3.5″ Chamber: Gives you the option to use the heaviest waterfowl loads on the market when you need maximum payload and energy at distance.
- Shim-Adjustable Stock: Allows for drop and cast customization to fit the shooter, improving comfort and accuracy—no gunsmithing required.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | 49 Inches |
| Capacity | 2+1 Rounds |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs |
| Finish | Realtree Max-5 Camo |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Inertia-Driven |
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is a dedicated waterfowler’s gun. When you’re standing in a flooded timber hole at dawn or hunkered in a layout blind in a cut cornfield, you need a shotgun that goes bang every single time. The 18i Waterfowler is for the hunter who pushes seasons to the limit, chasing late-season geese or big ducks that require dense patterns and high pellet counts. It’s also a formidable choice for turkey hunters who appreciate the extended range and reliable cycling in all conditions. The 7.1-pound weight balances well for carrying over long walks to the blind, and the 49-inch overall length provides a smooth, consistent swing.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The inertia system is famously reliable with minimal fouling issues, even after hundreds of rounds in muddy, wet conditions. The ability to cycle 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells interchangeably is a major advantage. The included shim kit means it fits out of the box for most shooters. The Realtree Max-5 finish is both effective and durable against brush and marsh grass.
Cons: The two-round magazine capacity (plus one in the chamber) is standard for migratory bird hunting but limits versatility for other uses like clays. At $1039.16, it’s an investment positioned against other premium inertia and gas-operated shotguns. The 28-inch barrel, while ideal for waterfowl, can feel long in tight turkey woods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Weatherby 18i compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
A: Yes. The 18i Waterfowler uses the Weatherby Extended Invector-Plus choke tube system. This is a proprietary thread pattern, so you’ll need to purchase chokes specifically marked for Weatherby shotguns. Many major brands like Carlson’s and Patternmaster offer a wide selection for this system.
Q: Can it reliably cycle lighter target loads for practice?
A: Absolutely. One of the strengths of the 18i’s inertia system is its ability to handle a wide range of loads without manual adjustments. It will reliably cycle standard 2 3/4-inch target loads at 1 1/8 oz, making it practical for off-season practice without switching to a different gun.
Q: What is the magazine capacity and is it plug-compliant for waterfowl?
A: The total capacity is three shells (2 in the magazine, 1 in the chamber). It comes from the factory with a magazine plug installed to limit the magazine to two shells, making it immediately compliant for migratory bird hunting regulations. The plug is easily removable for other uses where capacity isn’t restricted.
Ready to add this reliable, weather-ready shotgun to your gear? This Weatherby 18i Waterfowler is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
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