Description
The Weatherby SA-08 Upland 20 Ga, 26″, 3″ Chamber, Matte Black, Walnut Stock is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for upland bird hunting. It offers a lightweight, fast-handling package with classic wood and matte metal aesthetics, built for reliability in the field without a premium price tag. It’s a practical choice for hunters who want a dependable autoloader that won’t weigh them down.
Key Features
- Gas-Operated Reliability: Softens recoil and cycles a wide range of 20-gauge loads, from light target to 3″ magnums.
- Upland-Focused Design: The 26-inch barrel and overall lightweight build (around 5.75 lbs) make for quick, instinctive swings in the brush.
- Classic Walnut & Matte Finish: Features a satin-finished walnut stock and forend paired with a durable matte black metal finish for a traditional, no-glare look.
- Shim-Adjustable Stock: Includes shims to adjust the cast and drop for a better fit—no gunsmithing required for basic customization.
- Value Proposition: Priced at $620.20, it undercuts many competitors while delivering Weatherby’s reputation for quality.
Specs & Details
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
|---|---|
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.75 lbs |
| Finish | Matte Black Metal, Walnut Stock |
Here’s the thing—the SA-08’s gas system is a key part of its value. It’s simple, self-cleaning, and known for eating everything you feed it. That reliability, combined with the sub-6-pound weight, is where you get your bang-for-buck. The gun comes with five choke tubes (IC, M, IM, F, Skeet) giving you flexibility for different game and ranges right out of the box.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the hunter’s autoloader. It’s built for the walk-up hunter chasing pheasant, quail, or grouse where ounces feel like pounds by the end of the day. It’s also a fantastic choice for a newer shooter or a younger hunter moving up from a .410 or 28-gauge, thanks to its manageable 20-gauge recoil. If you want a semi-auto that prioritizes field performance over bench-rest accuracy or tactical features, this is a strong contender. The price point makes it accessible, and its performance makes it a keeper.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The low weight is its biggest advantage in the uplands. The gas operation is forgiving and reduces felt recoil noticeably compared to inertia systems. The walnut and matte finish is handsome and practical, resisting glare and scratches. It includes a full set of chokes. Finally, at this price, you’re getting Weatherby quality without paying for a fancy name or unnecessary frills.
Cons: To hit that price and weight, some features are simplified. The finish, while durable, isn’t a high-end gloss. The stock is walnut, but it’s a standard grade—don’t expect fancy figuring. Some may find the 26″ barrel a touch short for waterfowl or longer-range pass shooting, but that’s not its intended role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the SA-08 compare to a Beretta A300 or a Franchi Affinity?
A: The Beretta A300 is a fantastic gun but often costs $150-$250 more. The Franchi Affinity is inertia-driven, which some prefer for simplicity, but it can kick a bit more. The SA-08 splits the difference, offering gas-operated smoothness at a price closer to the Franchi. It’s a classic value-play.
Q: Can it handle light 7/8 oz target loads for clays?
A: Yes, the gas system is designed to cycle a wide range. Most users report reliable function with standard 1 oz and 7/8 oz target loads once broken in with a few heavier rounds. For dedicated clay shooting, you might want a dedicated gun, but for practice and fun, it works just fine.
Q: Is it ready to hunt after purchase?
A: Almost. You’ll need to perform a standard FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. Once that’s complete, it comes with the needed chokes. You just need to add your ammunition—it’s that straightforward. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
So, is the Weatherby SA-08 Upland the perfect shotgun? No gun is. But for the hunter who needs a reliable, lightweight, and good-looking semi-auto that focuses on fundamentals, it delivers serious value where it counts. Its 3″ chamber and 5.75 lb frame make it versatile enough for doves in September and rabbits in winter. Consider it a tool that does its job well without fuss.
See the full details and availability for the Weatherby SA-08 Upland on our site.
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