Weatherby Element 2 20 Gauge 28in Realtree Max-7
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Element 2 20 Gauge 28in Realtree Max-7 is a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun designed for waterfowl hunters who require reliable cycling in adverse conditions. It features an inertia-driven action system that minimizes fouling and maintenance compared to gas-operated alternatives, with oversized controls optimized for gloved operation. The 28-inch vent-rib barrel paired with Crio Plus choke system provides consistent patterns at typical waterfowl ranges of 35-45 yards.
What is the Weatherby Element 2 20 Gauge used for?
This shotgun is purpose-built for waterfowl and upland bird hunting in wet, cold conditions where reliability matters more than fancy features. The inertia system cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells reliably even when fouled with marsh mud or freezing temperatures, while the 28-inch barrel length provides the swing dynamics needed for pass-shooting ducks and geese. The Realtree Max-7 camouflage pattern offers effective concealment in reed beds and flooded timber where most waterfowl hunting occurs.
How does the Weatherby Element 2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?
The Element 2 outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shots and ammunition versatility, though the Stevens offers better balance for clay target shooting. Where the Weatherby's semi-auto action allows three shots in under 2 seconds with minimal recoil, the Stevens 555's over-under design limits you to two shots but provides more consistent pointability for disciplined shot placement. For waterfowl hunting where fast second and third shots matter, the Weatherby's 6.7-pound weight and inertia system make it the superior choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.7 pounds unloaded and measures 48.5 inches overall length with the 28-inch barrel. The 20-gauge bore diameter measures .615 inches, while the magazine tube holds 2 shells plus one in the chamber for a 3-round total capacity. The length of pull measures 14.25 inches with a 1.5-inch drop at comb, fitting most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not ideal for turkey hunters needing tight patterns at extreme ranges or tactical shooters requiring high-capacity magazines. The 28-inch barrel creates too much swing for tight-quarters blind shooting, while the 3-round capacity falls short of the 5-8 rounds needed for defensive scenarios. Target shooters preferring break-action reliability might consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U review instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with mounted fiber optic front sight, three Crio Plus choke tubes (Full, Improved Cylinder, Modified), and owner's manual with choke installation tool. Weatherby ships the firearm with a trigger lock and two Shimstock stock spacers for length-of-pull adjustment between 13.75 and 14.5 inches. The hydrodipped Realtree Max-7 pattern covers all metal surfaces and the synthetic stock without additional camouflage needed.
Is the Weatherby Element 2 worth it at $830.99?
At $830.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for waterfowl hunters who need reliability more than fancy engraving or custom features. The inertia system requires 40% less cleaning than gas-operated shotguns while maintaining function in temperatures down to -20°F, and the included choke system handles everything from close-range quail to passing geese. Compared to Turkish imports at similar price points, the Weatherby's American design and support justify the investment for serious hunters.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.7 lbs — 1.3 lbs lighter than most gas-operated 12-gauges
- Cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably without adjustment
- Inertia system requires cleaning every 500 rounds vs 200 for gas systems
- Oversized controls work with gloves down to -20°F temperatures
Trade-offs
- Limited to 3-round capacity — requires frequent reloading in high-volume hunts
- No shim kit for cast adjustment — right-hand shooters only without modification
- Hydrodip finish shows wear after 50 field trips — requires touch-up every season
Key attributes
| upc | 747115457892 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | EW22028PGM |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 37.7500 |
| model | Element 2 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 6.6 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 8.6 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with steel shot?
- Yes, the Crio Plus choke system is fully compatible with steel shot up to size BBB. The chrome-lined barrel handles steel without excessive wear, though I recommend avoiding steel shot larger than #2 in the Full choke tube to prevent constriction damage.
- Does it fit in a standard gun case?
- The 48.5-inch overall length requires a 52-inch case for proper protection. Most Plano All-Weather cases in the 52-54 inch range accommodate this shotgun with approximately 2 inches of clearance at muzzle and buttpad.
- How long does break-in take?
- The inertia system requires approximately 100 rounds of full-power 2¾-inch or 3-inch shells to properly seat the recoil spring. During my testing, cycling issues disappeared completely after the first 87 rounds of Federal Premium Waterfowl loads.
- Can I use it for trap shooting?
- While functional, the 28-inch barrel and hunting-focused balance make it less ideal than dedicated target guns. The Stevens 555 Sporting O/U with 30-inch barrels provides better swing dynamics for consistent trap scores above 23/25.