Weatherby Sorix Field 20ga 28in Walnut Semi-Auto
Pros & cons
What works
- Inertia system cycles 1180+ fps shells at 3 rounds/second—faster than gas-operated Benelli M2
- Cerakote finish rated for 500 hours salt spray testing—outlasts blued finishes 5:1
- Grade II walnut stock with 18 LPI checkering—denser than Grade I by 4 lines per inch
Trade-offs
- 2-round magazine capacity—half the tube length of most semi-autos like Benelli Ethos
- No optics mounting provisions—requires $250-400 gunsmithing for rail installation
- Walnut stock susceptible to swelling in humidity—adds 0.5-1.2% weight in 80% RH conditions
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Weatherby Sorix Field 20ga 28in Walnut Semi-Auto is a 20-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on Weatherby's inertia recoil system for reliable field performance in upland and waterfowl hunting. Its Grade II walnut stock and 28-inch Cerakote-finished barrel provide traditional aesthetics with modern corrosion resistance, while the 3-inch chamber accommodates a wide range of loads. The 2-round magazine capacity and absence of a rubber cheekpiece reflect its focused design for fast-handling sporting use where every shot counts.
What is the Weatherby Sorix Field 20ga 28in Walnut Semi-Auto used for?
This shotgun is engineered for upland bird and waterfowl hunting where quick follow-up shots and maneuverability are critical. The 28-inch barrel provides a balanced swing for tracking fast-flying targets, while the inertia system cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells reliably in field conditions. It's not designed for tactical or high-capacity scenarios—this is a hunter's tool through and through.
How does the Weatherby Sorix Field compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge 30in Walnut O/U Shotgun?
The Sorix Field offers faster follow-up shots through semi-auto operation versus the Stevens 555's over-under action, but sacrifices the instant choke selection of dual barrels. Where the Stevens 555 gives you two chokes ready—like Cylinder and Modified—the Sorix requires manual choking changes, adding 15-20 seconds between transitions. For driven birds or rapid sequences, the Sorix's 3+1 cyclic rate outperforms; for deliberate pattern switching, the Stevens wins.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded and measures 48.5 inches overall with its 28-inch barrel. The walnut stock has a 14.25-inch length of pull and 1.5-inch drop at comb, putting it squarely in traditional field dimensions. Balance point sits 2 inches ahead of the hinge pin, making it slightly forward-weighted for smooth swing transitions.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for turkey hunters needing dense full-choke patterns or tactical users wanting extended magazines. The 2-round capacity and lack of drilled/tapped receiver rule out optics mounting without gunsmithing, and the walnut stock won't withstand extreme moisture like synthetic alternatives. If you're hunting in downpours or need more than two shells on tap, look at the Stevens 334 synthetic rifle for wet-weather reliability.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, one Modified choke tube installed, four additional choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. No hard case is included—expect cardboard and foam—so factor another $120-180 for a Plano All-Weather or similar if traveling to hunt. Total package weight shipped is 9.2 pounds.
Is the Weatherby Sorix Field worth it at $2049.99?
At $2050, it's priced for shooters who value Weatherby's inertia system and walnut craftsmanship over budget options. You're paying for the Cerakote finish's corrosion resistance (tested to 500 hours salt spray), hand-checkered walnut, and the reliability of a system that cycles 1180 fps loads upward. If you break 500 shells a season and need dependable cycling in cold weather, it justifies the cost; if you shoot twice a year, a Stevens 555 at half the price makes more sense.
Key attributes
| upc | 747115462728 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | XSF2028MAG |
| shipping weight | 8.4 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Weatherby's proprietary choke tube system but accepts aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's and Briley that manufacture to Weatherby specs. Tube length is 2.5 inches with standard threads—verify compatibility codes before purchase.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- No, the overall length of 48.5 inches requires a 50-inch case for safe transport. I recommend Pelican 1750 or Plano All-Weather 52-inch models—both add 2.5 inches of foam padding for protection.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers from Ironclad Armory take 3-5 business days to Montana after background check clearance. We use UPS with adult signature required—no porch drops under federal regs.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle light loads?
- No, firearms are non-returnable per Ironclad Armory policy once the transfer is complete. Inertia systems require 1180 fps minimum—test with heavy loads first. Warranty repairs go through Weatherby directly.