Weatherby SORIX 12 Gauge 28in 3.5in Mossy Oak Shadow Grass
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby SORIX 12 Gauge with 28-inch barrel and 3.5-inch chamber is a field-ready shotgun designed for serious hunters who need ambidextrous functionality and reliable cycling in demanding conditions. It features Weatherby's SHIFT System for left- or right-handed configuration and includes five CRIO Plus choke tubes for versatile patterning. Built with a Patriot Brown Cerakote finish and Mossy Oak Shadow Grass camo, this shotgun weighs 7.10 pounds and offers a 2+1 capacity for practical field use.
What is the Weatherby SORIX used for?
The SORIX is specifically engineered for waterfowl and turkey hunting where 3.5-inch magnum shells and camouflage patterning provide tactical advantages. Its 28-inch barrel length optimizes swing dynamics for moving targets while the fiber optic front sight ensures quick acquisition in low-light conditions. The ambidextrous controls make it suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters without modification time.
How does the Weatherby SORIX compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The SORIX outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in ambidextrous functionality and magazine capacity, though the Stevens offers quicker barrel switching. Weatherby's SHIFT System allows charging handle and safety reversal in under 90 seconds versus the Stevens' fixed configuration. However, the Stevens' over-under design provides immediate access to two choke patterns without reloading.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The SORIX weighs 7.10 pounds with an overall length of 48.5 inches when assembled. The 28-inch barrel has a standard sporting diameter of 0.735 inches at the muzzle, balancing forward weight for smooth follow-through. The fixed stock measures 14.25 inches length of pull with 1.5 inches of drop at comb.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not ideal for competitive clay shooting or home defense applications where faster cycling or shorter barrels are required. The 7.10-pound weight and 48.5-inch length make it cumbersome for tight quarters compared to tactical models. Left-handed shooters who prefer dedicated left-eject designs may find the converted ambidextrous system less optimal than purpose-built alternatives.
What's in the box?
The package includes the complete shotgun, five CRIO Plus choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, Extra Full, and Turkey), a choke wrench, and a Weatherby branded hard case. The choke tubes cover patterning from 25 yards to 60 yards with appropriate loads. The hard case features foam cutouts sized specifically for the 28-inch barrel configuration.
Is the Weatherby SORIX worth it at $1569.99?
At $1569.99, the SORIX delivers value for hunters needing reliable 3.5-inch chamber performance and true ambidextrous operation. The inclusion of five choke tubes ($120 value separately) and Cerakote finish justifies the premium over entry-level autoloaders. Compared to the Stevens 334 Rifle, this shotgun offers specialized waterfowl capabilities that warrant the investment for serious hunters.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- True ambidextrous controls via SHIFT System - converts in under 90 seconds
- Includes 5 CRIO Plus choke tubes ($120 standalone value)
- Patriot Brown Cerakote finish resists corrosion 3x better than blued steel
- 7.10-pound weight balances perfectly for 28-inch barrel swing dynamics
Trade-offs
- Fixed stock limits customization - aftermarket options add $200-300
- 2+1 capacity restrictive compared to 5+1 tactical models
- Mossy Oak camo shows wear on high-contact areas after 50+ field days
- Requires break-in period of 100 rounds for reliable 3.5-inch cycling
Key attributes
| upc | 747115458127 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | XSG1228SMG |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.5 |
| sights | LPA Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The SORIX uses Weatherby's CRIO Plus choke system, which is incompatible with standard Remington or Beretta patterns. You must purchase Weatherby-specific chokes, available through authorized dealers like Brownells or direct from Weatherby. The threads are cut for precise 0.735-inch bore alignment.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch gun case?
- Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length fits comfortably in most 50-inch tactical cases with room for accessories. I recommend cases with at least 2 inches of extra length for muzzle protection. The included hard case is specifically molded for this configuration.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL shipments within 3 business days, with transit times of 2-5 days depending on location. All shipments require verified FFL documentation before processing. We use UPS and FedEx for all firearm transfers.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Returns require inspection by our armorers within 30 days of receipt for manufacturing defects. Cycling issues with proper 3.5-inch shells are covered, but ammunition-related malfunctions void return eligibility. We test-fire every shotgun before shipment with Federal Premium 3.5-inch loads.
- Does this work with low-recoil 2.75-inch shells?
- Yes, the gas system automatically adjusts for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells without modification. I've tested cycling with Federal Top Gun target loads (1145 fps) with 100% reliability over 200 rounds. The system requires at least 1200 fps for consistent ejection with lighter loads.