Description
You’re at the sporting goods counter, staring at a wall of shotguns. You need a reliable, lightweight upland or clay gun that won’t break the bank, but you’re tired of plastic stocks and matte finishes that feel cheap. The price tags on the high-end Italian autoloaders make you wince. There has to be a middle ground—a shotgun that offers classic aesthetics and dependable performance without the luxury markup. That’s the exact niche the Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe, 20 Ga, 28″, 3″ Chamber, Gloss Finish, Checkered Walnut Stock is built to fill.
Answer Capsule: The Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20-gauge. It features a 28-inch barrel, a 3-inch chamber, a high-gloss blue finish, and a checkered walnut stock. It’s designed as a reliable, field-ready shotgun that balances classic good looks with modern inertia-driven performance at a mid-range price point, making it a strong value contender for upland hunting and sport shooting.
Here’s the thing—the SA-08’s core value is its simple, proven action. Unlike many gas guns that can be finicky, the SA-08 uses Weatherby’s version of an inertia-driven system, similar in principle to the well-regarded Benelli system. This means it cycles a wide range of loads reliably, from light target 7/8-ounce rounds up to 3-inch magnums, with minimal maintenance. The 20-gauge model, tipping the scales at a manageable weight, makes it a joy to carry all day in the field without punishing your shoulder. You get that soft-shooting semi-auto benefit without the complexity. The action is robust and drop-in ready, requiring no gunsmithing for routine use.
Where the “Deluxe” designation earns its keep is in the fit and finish. The checkered walnut stock isn’t just a veneer; it’s a solid piece of wood with a deep, rich gloss finish that catches the light. The metalwork features a traditional high-polish blue that complements the wood perfectly. This isn’t a tactical tool—it’s a shotgun with heirloom-quality aesthetics. For under $700, that level of traditional craftsmanship is getting harder to find. The 28-inch barrel provides a smooth, consistent swing for crossing shots on doves or clays, offering a great balance point. The gun ships with five choke tubes (IC, M, IM, F, and Skeet), giving you immediate versatility for different games.
Let’s talk practical tradeoffs. The gloss finish and polished blue are beautiful, but they will show scratches and handling marks more readily than a matte or camo finish. That’s the price of classic style. The inertia system is famously reliable but can transmit slightly more felt recoil than a tuned gas system with heavy loads—though in a 20-gauge, this is a minor point for most shooters. The price of $684.87 positions it squarely between budget Turkish imports and premium American or Italian autoloaders. You’re paying for the Weatherby name, the refined finish, and a track record of reliability that cheaper clones often lack.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | 48.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.2 lbs |
| Finish | Gloss Blue / Checkered Walnut |
| Chokes | 5 (IC, M, IM, F, Skeet) |
| Action Type | Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Outstanding wood-to-metal fit and finish for the price. Simple, reliable inertia action cycles light to heavy loads. Includes five choke tubes for immediate field versatility. Lightweight and pointable for all-day carry. Backed by the Weatherby brand reputation.
Cons: Gloss finish shows wear more than matte. May have more perceived recoil than gas guns with heavy 3″ loads. Traditional styling may not appeal to tactical or modern-minded shooters.
Who is this for? This shotgun is ideal for the budget-conscious hunter or shooter who refuses to compromise on aesthetics. It’s for the Missouri upland hunter chasing pheasants and quail, the new sporting clays shooter wanting a dependable first auto, or the seasoned shooter looking for a lightweight, reliable backup gun that looks like it costs twice as much. It’s a workhorse dressed in Sunday best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun reliably cycle light target loads?
A: Yes. The inertia system in the SA-08 is designed to handle a wide range of loads. It will reliably cycle standard 7/8-ounce and 1-ounce target loads commonly used for skeet and sporting clays, which is a key advantage over some budget gas-operated autoloaders.
Q: Is the walnut stock finished or just stained?
A: The “Deluxe” model features a fully finished, high-gloss lacquer finish over the checkered walnut. This provides a durable and water-resistant surface that enhances the wood’s grain, though it requires a bit more care to avoid scratches compared to an oil finish.
Q: What is the magazine capacity?
A: The SA-08 has a standard magazine capacity of 4+1 rounds (four in the magazine tube, plus one in the chamber). This is standard for most hunting-focused semi-automatic shotguns and is compliant for migratory bird hunting regulations.
If the balance of classic style, proven performance, and straightforward value speaks to your needs, this Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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