Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe 28-Gauge

Though certainly better known for its rifles, Weatherby has long been producing a selection of fine shotguns. Nowadays, you can find a Weatherby scattergun for just about any purpose—whether you’re an upland hunter, waterfowler or a home-defense practitioner, the folks in Paso Robles have you covered. The company’s primary semi-automatic shotgun line, labeled SA-08, offers a bevy of options—and among its latest additions is the Deluxe 28-gauge.

Made in Turkey to Weatherby’s specifications, the SA-08 28 tips the scale at less than 6 pounds, and its weight is distributed similarly to other gas-operated semi-automatics that have a slightly barrel-heavy feel.

The shotgun’s receiver is machined from a hard aluminum alloy. Its barrel is chrome-lined and carries the gas cylinder and piston slung beneath it. Like the rest of the SA-08 line, this 28-gauge model comes with two gas pistons: One labeled “Light Loads,” the other labeled “Heavy Loads.” Changing said piston takes about two minutes. A Weatherby spokesman described the SA-08 28 as a gentleman’s gun that anyone can afford—and it certainly lives up to such a claim. The quality it delivers is more than worth the $849 suggested price tag.

For more information, check out the video embedded below, hosted by American Hunter's Shawn Skipper, or go to Weatherby.com.

Technical Specifications:

Action type: gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun
Gauge: 28, 2¾"
Receiver: anodized aluminum alloy
Trigger: 8-lb. pull
Magazine: four shells with supplied plug reducing to two
Barrel: 28" (also available in 26") with screw-in choke tubes
Sights: ventilated rib with brass front bead
Stock: high-gloss, select walnut: length of pull, 145⁄16"; drop at comb, 19⁄16"; drop at heel, 25⁄16"; cast-off 1/8"
Overall Length: 48¼"
Weight: 5 lbs., 11 ozs.
Metal Finish: polished black-anodized receiver, black barrel
MSRP: $849

For Further Reading: Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe 28 Gauge