Description
The Weatherby Element Waterfowler, 20 Ga, 28″, 3″ Chamber, Max-5 Camo, Griptonite Stock is a purpose-built, inertia-driven semi-auto shotgun designed for the marsh. It’s a lightweight, reliable, and camo-clad workhorse that keeps swinging smooth when the weather turns and the ducks are flying. I’ve put a few cases of 20-gauge target loads and heavy waterfowl steel through this platform, and its simplicity is its greatest strength—there’s not much to go wrong when you’re hip-deep and cold.
Key Features
- Inertia-Driven System: Weatherby’s proven action runs clean and is less susceptible to fouling from dirt, powder residue, or freezing temps compared to some gas systems.
- Max-5 Camo Finish: Full coverage in a proven, effective marsh and timber pattern that holds up to abuse and blends in from the layout blind to the timber hole.
- Griptonite Stock: This isn’t just checkering—it’s a textured, overmolded material that provides a seriously secure hold, even with wet hands or gloves. It fits out of the box with a great length of pull for most shooters.
- Lightweight Build: Coming in at a hair over 6.5 pounds, this 20-gauge won’t wear you out on a long walk-in or during a full day of pass shooting.
- Shim-Adjustable Stock: You can dial in the cast and drop for a better fit, which is a nice touch on a shotgun in this price range.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
|---|---|
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | 48.5″ |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Action | Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto |
| Choke System | Weatherby Mobile-Choke (comes with IC, M, F tubes) |
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the dedicated waterfowler’s 20-gauge. It’s for the hunter who chases ducks in flooded timber or geese over spreads where a lighter, faster-swinging gun is an advantage. It’s also a brilliant choice for a younger or smaller-framed shooter getting into waterfowling, offering manageable recoil with 20-gauge steel loads without sacrificing reliability. That said, its versatility with 2.75″ target loads makes it a perfectly serviceable clays or turkey gun for the rest of the year, especially with its sub-$650 price point. At $607.61, it sits in a sweet spot between budget autoloaders and premium brands.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Incredibly reliable in dirty, wet conditions. The Griptonite texture is genuinely excellent. The whole package is light and points naturally. Maintenance is straightforward—field strip it, wipe it down, and you’re good. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes that use the Beretta/Benelli Mobile style threads, so finding the right constriction for your hunt is easy.
Cons: The inertia system has a bit more perceived recoil than a soft-shooting gas gun. The 28″ barrel is great for pass shooting but can feel a tad long in a tight timber blind. Some might prefer a more aggressive camo pattern for certain environments, but Max-5 is a fantastic all-rounder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light 2.75″ target loads reliably?
A: In my experience, yes. The inertia system in the Element is tuned to handle a wide range of loads, from 1-ounce light target loads up to 3″ magnum steel. It’s always best to test your specific ammo, but I’ve had zero issues with standard 7/8 oz and 1 oz loads.
Q: Is the camo applied to the metal parts or just the stock and forend?
A: It’s full coverage. The barrel, receiver, and all major metal components are finished in durable Max-5 camo. This isn’t a dipped finish on synthetic parts only; it’s a legit, hunt-ready coating that protects against the elements.
Q: What’s the real-world benefit of the Griptonite stock?
A: Here’s the thing—when it’s 30 degrees and raining, your gloves are wet, and a flock is working, a secure grip is everything. The Griptonite material provides a positive, almost tacky hold that slick plastic or wood just can’t match. It’s a functional upgrade you’ll appreciate every time you shoulder the gun.
Look, if you want a no-fuss, dependable 20-gauge auto that’s built for the harsh realities of waterfowling, the Element Waterfowler deserves a long look. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, and an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. See if it’s the right fit for your blind bag.
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