Weatherby Brings Back the Orion Over/Under Shotgun

In and out of the Weatherby product lineup since 1982, the Orion over/under shotgun will make its return in 2015.

"Back by popular demand, our new Orion is a rock-solid, beautiful over/under shotgun that offers exceptional balance and effortless swing through," said Adam Weatherby, executive vice president/chief operating officer. "We subjected it to rigorous testing to ensure smooth, reliable performance. We also gave it the Weatherby touch to meet the expectations and inspire the dreams of hunters and shooters everywhere."

The shotgun, which weighs in at approximately 7 lbs., will be offered in 12 gauge with a 26"- or 28" barrel and 3" chamber.

The Orion's Grade "A" walnut stock has a high-gloss finish and a rounded Prince of Wales grip featuring precision-cut checkering (22 LPI). A Pachmayr Decelerator pad helps reduce felt recoil, while it "speed mount heel" is designed to prevent catching on clothing when shouldering the gun.

The new Orion shotguns have a traditional boxlock action with a dual conical pin locking mechanism. In order to provide exceptional balance and reduced weight, the forged-steel receiver is more shallow with a thinner profile than traditional 12-gauge designs. The chamber and bore are chrome-lined for easier cleaning and greater corrosion resistance to withstand years of high-volume shooting. Automatic shell ejectors allow for faster reloading.

Other key features include a matte ventilated top rib to provide a better sighting plane and dissipate heat waves quicker. A threaded brass bead front sight atop the barrel helps facilitate quick target acquisition. An ambidextrous top tang safety also serves as barrel selector. The shotgun features Weatherby's Integral Multi-Choke System and comes with Improved Cylinder, Modified and Full choke tubes that allow shooters to tailor their shot patterns for specific hunting applications.

MSRP: $1,099.