Description
The Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe, 28 Ga, 28″, 2 3/4″ Chamber, Gloss Finish, Checkered Walnut Stock is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for upland hunting and clay sports. It balances classic aesthetics with modern reliability, offering a lightweight, low-recoil platform in a versatile 28-gauge chambering. This model is a solid value proposition for shooters seeking a dependable, field-ready shotgun without a custom shop price tag.
Key Features
- Gas-Operated System: Reduces felt recoil and ensures reliable cycling with a wide range of target and field loads.
- Lightweight 28-Gauge Chambering: Ideal for extended days in the field, offering a great balance of power and shootability for upland birds and clays.
- Gloss Finish & Checkered Walnut: Provides a traditional, handsome appearance that stands out from matte-finish utility guns.
- 28-Inch Barrel: Delivers a smooth swing and consistent pointability for wingshooting applications.
- 2 3/4″ Chamber: Handles standard 28-gauge ammunition readily available on shelves.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Chamber | 2 3/4″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 inches |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated |
| Finish | Gloss (Metal), Gloss Wood |
| Stock | Checkered Walnut |
Weighing in at a featherlight sub-6 pounds, this shotgun is a dream to carry all day. The gas system is a key player here—it soaks up recoil effectively, making practice sessions and long hunts more pleasant. Look, when you compare the Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe, 28 Ga, 28″, 2 3/4″ Chamber, Gloss Finish, Checkered Walnut Stock to other semi-autos in its class, the value becomes clear. You’re getting Weatherby’s reputation for reliability and a classic look that often costs hundreds more. At $562.96, it sits in a sweet spot between budget pumps and high-end autoloaders.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the ideal gun for the upland hunter who covers miles chasing quail, grouse, or woodcock and appreciates a lighter carry. It’s also a fantastic choice for a shooter getting into sporting clays or skeet who wants a dedicated, soft-shooting small-gauge option without breaking the bank. It’s a step-up gun from an entry-level model, offering better fit and finish for a very reasonable investment. The 28-gauge is potent enough for game yet gentle, making it a great option for younger or smaller-framed shooters moving up from a .410.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The low weight is the biggest advantage for active hunters. The gas operation ensures it cycles target loads reliably—no gunsmithing required to get it running. The gloss walnut stock gives it a premium feel uncommon at this price. It’s also compatible with a range of aftermarket chokes, like those from Carlson’s or Briley, for tuning your pattern.
Cons: The 28-gauge ammunition, while available, is less common and slightly more expensive per box than 12 or 20-gauge. The gloss finish, while beautiful, can show scratches and glare in bright sun more than a matte finish would. That said, you’re trading pure utility for aesthetics, which is a practical choice many are happy to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28-gauge powerful enough for hunting?
A: Absolutely. With proper shot selection, the 28-gauge is highly effective on upland birds like pheasant, quail, and dove within typical ranges. It offers ample power with significantly less recoil and weight than a 12-gauge.
Q: Can it shoot 2 1/2″ shells?
A: The chamber is specifically for 2 3/4″ shells. While you can fire 2 1/2″ shells, they may not cycle the action reliably in a semi-auto designed for the longer chamber. For consistent performance, stick with 2 3/4″ ammunition.
Q: What is the magazine capacity?
A: The SA-08 typically has a magazine capacity of 3 shells (2+1), which is standard and compliant for migratory bird hunting. Always confirm your local regulations. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
If you’re seeking a lightweight, reliable semi-auto that blends field performance with classic good looks, the Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe in 28-gauge represents a compelling value. Consider it for your next upland or clays outing.
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