Description
The Weatherby SA-08 Upland 20 Ga, 28″, 3″ Chamber, Matte Black, Walnut Stock is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for upland bird hunting. It offers reliable cycling with lighter target loads, a classic walnut stock, and a matte black finish, all at a price point that makes it a strong contender in the value-focused hunting shotgun market.
Key Features
- Gas-Operated Reliability: The SA-08’s gas system is tuned to cycle a wide range of 20-gauge loads, from light 7/8 oz. target shells up to 3″ magnums, with less felt recoil than inertia-driven systems.
- Classic Upland Aesthetics: The satin-finished walnut stock and forend provide a traditional look that hunters appreciate in the field, paired with a durable matte black metal finish.
- Value-Driven Performance: Weatherby packs features like a chrome-lined barrel, a self-compensating piston, and a fiber-optic front sight into a package priced well below many competitors.
- User-Friendly Design: Includes a set of five interchangeable choke tubes (IC, M, F, Skeet, Cylinder) and shims for adjusting the stock’s drop and cast. It’s drop-in ready for the field with no gunsmithing required.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 inches |
| Overall Length | 48.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.2 lbs |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Chokes | 5 (IC, M, F, Skeet, Cyl) |
Weighing in at just over six pounds, the SA-08 Upland is easy to carry all day. The 28″ barrel offers a smooth swing for crossing shots on pheasant or quail. That said, the real story is the price. At $620.20, this Weatherby undercuts similar gas-operated shotguns from Franchi and Beretta by a significant margin, giving you more budget for shells and gear. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the budget-conscious upland hunter or recreational clay shooter who wants reliable semi-auto performance without the premium price tag. It’s ideal for someone stepping up from a pump-action or a heavier 12-gauge, seeking a lighter, faster-handling gun that won’t punish the shoulder during long days afield. If you prioritize function and value over flashy brand prestige, the SA-08 demands a look.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent value for a gas-operated semi-auto; soft-shooting with light loads; classic, attractive walnut and matte finish; includes a full set of chokes; lighter weight is great for walking fields.
Cons: The walnut, while handsome, may not be as finely figured as on guns costing twice as much. The gas system requires more routine cleaning than an inertia system to maintain reliability—a simple trade-off for the reduced recoil and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light 7/8 oz. target loads reliably?
A: Yes, that’s a key strength of the gas-operated SA-08 system. It’s designed to handle light target loads up to 3″ magnums without adjustment, making it versatile for clays and hunting.
Q: How does it compare to a Stoeger M3000 or a Mossberg SA-20?
A: The Stoeger is inertia-driven, which some prefer for simpler cleaning but can be sharper recoiling. The Mossberg SA-20 is a closer competitor in price and operation, but the Weatherby often edges it out with its included choke set and perceived fit and finish. It’s a tight race for bang-for-buck.
Q: Is the length of pull adjustable?
A: The stock includes shims to adjust the drop and cast for a better fit. For major length changes, you’d need to have the stock professionally cut or add a pad spacer—a common modification on many shotguns in this class.
Look, if you need a dependable, soft-shooting 20-gauge for birds or clays and want to keep cash in your wallet, the Weatherby SA-08 Upland makes a compelling case. Its blend of proven gas operation, classic style, and an accessible price is hard to beat. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See if this value-packed uplander is the right fit for your next season.
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