Weatherby Sorix Field 12ga 28″ 3.5″ Chamber Walnut
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 3.5" shells reliably - 40% more shot capacity than 2-3/4" loads
- Cerakote finish on all metal surfaces - withstands 500+ hours salt spray testing
- Grade II walnut stock - 25% denser than standard grade walnut
- Inertia system reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% versus gas-operated competitors
Trade-offs
- Requires specific ammunition pressure to cycle - fails with light target loads under 1-1/8 oz
- Proprietary choke system - aftermarket options cost $25-40 each versus $15 for universal patterns
- 28-inch barrel length limits maneuverability in blind hunting situations
- Premium price point - $800-1000 more than comparable Turkish-made semi-autos
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Weatherby Sorix Field 12ga 28″ 3.5″ Chamber Walnut? It's a semi-automatic field shotgun built on Weatherby's inertia recoil system, chambered for 3.5" shells and finished with Grade II walnut. This configuration combines traditional aesthetics with modern corrosion resistance through Cerakote coatings, and its 28-inch barrel provides optimal balance for field applications. Designed for hunters who need reliable cycling with heavy waterfowl loads while maintaining classic firearm ergonomics.
What is the Weatherby Sorix Field used for?
This shotgun is primarily for waterfowl and upland hunting where 3.5" shell capability matters. The inertia system handles high-brass loads consistently, while the 28-inch barrel provides smooth swing characteristics for moving targets. It's optimized for environments where corrosion resistance is critical, making it ideal for marsh and field use.
How does the Weatherby Sorix Field compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Sorix Field offers semi-auto reliability versus the Stevens 555's over/under action. Weatherby's inertia system reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to the Stevens' fixed breech, but requires more maintenance to function optimally. The Stevens 555 Sporting O/U provides simpler mechanical reliability with its twin-barrel design, making it better for shooters who prioritize minimal maintenance over recoil reduction.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Sorix Field weighs 7 pounds 8 ounces with an overall length of 48.5 inches. The 28-inch barrel has a bore diameter of .729 inches with a 3.5-inch chamber, and the stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull. These dimensions create a balanced platform that handles well in field conditions without excessive muzzle heaviness.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for tactical or home defense applications due to its 28-inch barrel length. The inertia system also requires specific ammunition pressures to cycle reliably, making it unsuitable for light target loads under 1-1/8 ounce. For tactical applications, consider a shorter-barreled option like the the Stevens 334 Rifle with its 20-inch barrel.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with one 2-round magazine tube installed, one choke tube (typically Improved Cylinder), and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, Weatherby includes only the essential components—expect to purchase additional chokes separately if you need specialized constrictions for different hunting scenarios.
Is the Weatherby Sorix Field worth it at $2096.99?
At this price point, the Sorix Field competes with premium semi-automatics from Beretta and Benelli. The value comes from Weatherby's proven inertia system and premium walnut furniture, but the price reflects branding as much as performance. For hunters needing 3.5" capability with traditional aesthetics, it's justified; for budget-conscious shooters, the Stevens 555 Sporting review at half the price may suffice.
Key attributes
| upc | 747115462711 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | XSF1228SMG |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Weatherby's proprietary choke tube system with standard threading. The pattern is consistent with other Weatherby shotguns, requiring specific Weatherby-branded chokes rather than universal options. Expect to pay $25-40 per additional choke tube from authorized dealers.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch gun case?
- Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length allows clearance in most standard cases. For optimal protection, I recommend a 54-inch hard case with foam insert. The walnut stock requires careful handling to avoid finish damage during transport.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to licensed FFL holders takes 3-5 business days once payment clears. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required. Contact your local FFL beforehand to ensure they accept shipments from online retailers.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Returns for mechanical defects are handled through Weatherby's warranty service, not the retailer. The manufacturer provides a 5-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. You must contact Weatherby directly and ship the firearm to their authorized service center for evaluation.
- Does this work with standard 2-3/4 inch shells?
- Yes, the 3.5-inch chamber safely handles 2-3/4 and 3-inch shells. However, the inertia system may not cycle reliably with light target loads below 1-1/8 ounces. For consistent performance, use ammunition meeting Weatherby's specified pressure requirements.