Description
Weatherby Element 2 20 Gauge 28in Realtree Max-7
The Weatherby Element 2 20 Gauge 28in Realtree Max-7 is a purpose-built semi-automatic waterfowl shotgun that cycles reliably in wet, muddy, or freezing conditions. Its inertia-driven action and oversized controls make it a smart choice for hunters who want a lightweight, low-maintenance gun that keeps up with fast-moving birds. Per Weatherby specs, this shotgun weighs just 6.25 pounds, making it easy to carry through a long day in the marsh.
| Manufacturer | Weatherby |
|---|---|
| Model | Element 2 Waterfowl |
| Material | Aluminum alloy receiver, walnut stock with Realtree Max-7 hydrodip |
| Compatibility | 20 gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells |
| Finish | Realtree Max-7 camouflage (stock, receiver, barrel, and top rib) |
| Weight | 6.25 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Inertia-Operated Cycling System — Why it matters: No gas system means fewer moving parts to clean or fail in dirty conditions. The inertia action uses recoil energy to cycle the next shell, so mud, snow, or light debris won’t jam it up. You can hunt all season with minimal maintenance.
- Oversized Controls — Why it matters: The bolt handle, bolt release, and safety are all enlarged for gloved-hand operation. When your fingers are cold or wet, you won’t fumble to load, unload, or make the gun safe. This is a real advantage for early-morning hunts in the blind.
- Realtree Max-7 Hydrodip Finish — Why it matters: The full-coverage camouflage pattern breaks up the shotgun’s outline against marsh and field backgrounds. The hydrodip covers the stock, receiver, barrel, and top rib, so there are no shiny spots to alert wary ducks or geese.
- 28-Inch Vent-Rib Barrel with Crio Plus Chokes — Why it matters: The 28-inch barrel swings naturally for crossing shots and pairs with the included Crio Plus choke set (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder). You can tailor the pattern density for decoying ducks, pass-shooting geese, or upland birds without buying extra tubes.
- Lightweight at 6.25 Pounds — Why it matters: At just over six pounds, the Element 2 is easy to carry on long walks through marsh or field. Less fatigue means you stay sharp for the shot when a flock drops in. It’s also a great fit for youth shooters or smaller-framed hunters who want a 20 gauge that doesn’t beat them up.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for waterfowl hunters who need a reliable, low-maintenance 20 gauge for ducks, geese, and other migratory birds. It’s also a strong choice for upland hunters who want a lightweight, camo-finished gun that won’t weigh them down on all-day walks. Because of its manageable recoil and simple controls, the Element 2 is a good option for youth shooters or beginners stepping up from a .410 or 28 gauge. Experienced hunters will appreciate the inertia action’s reliability in harsh weather and the Crio Plus choke system’s versatility.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Inertia drive cycles reliably in wet and cold conditions with minimal cleaning.
- Pro: Oversized controls make operation easy with gloved hands.
- Pro: Lightweight at 6.25 pounds reduces fatigue during long days afield.
- Pro: Full Realtree Max-7 camo coverage helps conceal the gun from wary birds.
- Con: The inertia action can be sensitive to light loads — it cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells best with loads over 1 ounce. Some target loads may not cycle reliably.
Comparison
| Feature | Weatherby Element 2 20 Gauge | Benelli Montefeltro 20 Gauge | Remington 1100 20 Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Inertia | Inertia (Benelli Inertia Driven) | Gas-operated |
| Weight | 6.25 lbs | 6.4 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Camouflage | Realtree Max-7 (full coverage) | Realtree Max-7 (optional) | Wood/blued or synthetic (camo optional) |
| Choke System | Crio Plus (3 chokes) | Crio (3 chokes) | Rem Choke (3 chokes) |
| Price | $830.68 | $1,399 (approx.) | $999 (approx.) |
The Weatherby Element 2 offers similar inertia reliability to the Benelli Montefeltro at a lower price point, and it weighs less than the Remington 1100. The trade-off is that the Remington 1100’s gas system handles a wider range of loads, including light target ammo.
FAQ
What shells does the Weatherby Element 2 20 gauge cycle?
The Element 2 cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20 gauge shells. For best reliability, use loads with at least 1 ounce of shot. Lighter target loads may not fully cycle the inertia system.
Is the Realtree Max-7 finish durable?
Yes. The hydrodip finish is applied over the stock, receiver, barrel, and top rib, and it’s designed to resist scratches and wear from normal hunting use. Per Weatherby, the finish is tested for adhesion and UV resistance.
How do I clean the inertia system on the Element 2?
Field-strip the shotgun by removing the bolt and trigger group. Wipe the inertia spring and piston clean with a dry cloth — no oil is needed on the inertia parts. Apply light oil to the bolt rails and trigger group per the owner’s manual. Cleaning frequency depends on use, but many hunters clean it once a season or after heavy exposure to mud or saltwater.
Can a left-handed shooter use this shotgun?
Yes. The safety is ambidextrous (located at the tang), and the bolt release is oversized for easy reach from either side. The stock is cast for right-handed shooters, but left-handed shooters can still operate the controls without issue.
What chokes are included with the Element 2?
The shotgun ships with three Crio Plus chokes: Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder. These are interchangeable with other Weatherby Crio Plus chokes and can be swapped without tools using the included choke wrench.
Trust and Convenience
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✅ Ships within 1–2 business days
- ✅ 30-day return policy
- ✅ Secure checkout with encrypted payment processing
Last updated: April 2026
According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, over 1.2 million waterfowl hunters in the U.S. rely on semi-automatic shotguns like the Weatherby Element 2 for its reliability and low recoil.
Explore more options in our Semi Auto Shotguns and Waterfowl Shotguns categories.
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