Weatherby EWF2028PGM Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge 28" 4+1 3" Overall Realtree Max-5 Fixed Griptonite Stock Right Hand (Full Size) Includes 3 Chokes

Mastering the Marsh: The Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge Shotgun

For serious waterfowl hunters, a reliable, durable, and comfortable shotgun isn't just a luxury – it's a necessity. The blinds are cold, the marshes are wet, and the action can be fast and furious. You need a firearm that can stand up to the elements and perform flawlessly, shot after shot. Enter the Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge Shotgun, model EWF2028PGM, a semi-automatic marvel engineered to excel in the most demanding environments. This shotgun isn't just built; it's designed to become an extension of the hunter, providing unparalleled confidence when the birds commit.

Whether you're a seasoned waterfowler seeking a lighter, faster-swinging option, or a new hunter looking for a manageable yet powerful shotgun, the Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge offers a compelling solution. It addresses common challenges faced by hunters, such as recoil fatigue, difficulty with quick follow-up shots, and the need for a firearm that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Why Choose the 20 Gauge for Waterfowl Hunting?

Many experienced hunters are discovering the significant advantages of the 20 gauge over the traditional 12 gauge, especially for waterfowl. While the 12 gauge offers a heavier payload, the modern 20 gauge, particularly with advanced ammunition, provides more than enough power to ethically harvest ducks and geese at common shooting distances.

Here’s why the 20 gauge Weatherby Element shines:

• Reduced Recoil: The 20 gauge produces significantly less felt recoil than a 12 gauge, leading to less shoulder fatigue during long days in the blind and allowing for quicker, more accurate follow-up shots. This is particularly beneficial for high-volume shooting scenarios common in waterfowl hunting.
• Lighter Weight & Maneuverability: At a mere 6.25 lbs, the Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge is incredibly light. This translates to easier carrying across muddy fields, quicker swinging on fast-moving birds, and less strain when holding the gun at the ready. Its overall length of 48.75 inches strikes an ideal balance between handling and sight radius.
• Optimal for Younger or Smaller Shooters: For new hunters, especially youth or those with a smaller frame, the 20 gauge offers a perfect entry point into waterfowl hunting, building confidence without the intimidation of heavy recoil.
• Efficiency: Modern shotgun shells for 20 gauge are highly efficient, delivering impressive patterns and knockdown power.

The Heart of Reliability: Weatherby's Inertia-Operated Action

At the core of the Element Waterfowl's exceptional performance is Weatherby’s renowned "inertia-operated" action. Unlike gas-operated systems that vent gas to cycle the action, inertia systems rely on the recoil force of the fired shell. This design offers several distinct advantages for a waterfowl shotgun:

• Unparalleled Cleanliness: Without gas ports and pistons to collect carbon, powder residue, and moisture, the inertia system stays remarkably cleaner. This means less frequent cleaning, greater reliability in the field, and a reduced chance of malfunctions, even after hundreds of rounds.
• Extreme Reliability: Inertia systems are known for their simplicity and robustness. They are less susceptible to fouling from dirt, mud, or water, making them ideal for the notoriously harsh conditions of duck blinds and goose pits. When every shot counts, you can trust this action to cycle consistently.
• Consistent Cycling: The inertia system ensures reliable cycling across a wide range of loads, from light target shells to heavy 3-inch magnum waterfowl loads. This versatility means you can confidently use your preferred ammunition without worrying about cycling issues.

Engineered for the Elements: Design & Durability

The Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge is more than just a mechanism; it's a complete system designed to thrive in the rugged outdoors. Every component contributes to its legendary performance and resilience.

Realtree Max-5 Camouflage: Disappearing into the Landscape

The shotgun features an overall Realtree Max-5 finish on both the barrel and receiver. This advanced waterfowl pattern is meticulously designed to blend seamlessly into a wide variety of wetland environments, from open fields to flooded timber and muddy shorelines. Its intricate layering of reeds, cattails, corn, and branches provides exceptional concealment, helping you remain undetected by wary ducks and geese. This comprehensive camouflage application isn't just aesthetic; it's a crucial part of effective waterfowl hunting strategy.

Griptonite Stock: Unyielding Control in Any Weather

The Fixed Griptonite Stock is a hallmark of Weatherby’s commitment to shooter comfort and control. Made from durable synthetic material, the stock is impervious to the elements, shrugging off rain, snow, and mud. The "Griptonite" texture provides a secure, non-slip grip, even when your hands are cold, wet, or gloved. This ensures superior handling and control, allowing for quick, precise movements and stable aiming, which are critical in fast-paced hunting scenarios. The stock finish also features the Realtree Max-5 pattern, completing the seamless concealment.

Barrel & Sights: Precision and Longevity

The 28-inch vent rib barrel is chrome-lined, providing exceptional resistance to corrosion, which is vital when exposed to moisture and the corrosive nature of some shotgun shells. The chrome lining also makes cleaning easier and extends the barrel's lifespan. The vented top rib helps dissipate heat during rapid firing, reducing mirage effect and improving sight picture.

A bright fiber optic front bead sight provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, from low-light pre-dawn hours to bright midday sun. This highly visible sight system aids in quick target acquisition, ensuring you get on the birds accurately and swiftly.

Optimized for Your Fit: Spacers and Shims

Weatherby understands that proper gun fit is paramount for accuracy and comfort. The Element Waterfowl includes spacers and shims to allow for precise adjustments to the stock's drop and cast. This adjustability ensures that the shotgun can be tailored to the individual shooter's body mechanics, leading to a more natural pointing ability, reduced perceived recoil, and improved shooting performance. A shotgun that fits you perfectly is a shotgun you'll shoot better and more comfortably. The factory drop of 1 5/8" at the comb and 2 1/4" at the heel provides a versatile starting point for customization.

Versatility and Convenience Features

Beyond its core design, the Weatherby Element Waterfowl incorporates thoughtful features that enhance its usability and effectiveness in the field.

Dual-Purpose Bolt Release: Efficiency When It Counts

The innovative dual-purpose bolt release is a testament to Weatherby's practical engineering. This feature allows for two critical functions:

1. Chambering a Round: With the bolt locked back, a simple press of the release sends the bolt forward, chambering a shell from the magazine.
2. Unloading the Magazine Safely: This feature also allows you to remove live shells from the magazine without having to cycle them through the chamber. This is invaluable for quickly and safely unloading the shotgun at the end of a hunt or when transitioning between hunting locations, minimizing the risk of accidental discharge.

Choke System: Adaptable for Every Shot

The shotgun comes standard with three choke tubes: Full (F), Modified (M), and Improved Cylinder (IC). This versatile set allows hunters to optimize their shot patterns for different ranges and types of game:

• Full (F): Provides the tightest pattern, ideal for long-range shots on ducks or geese, or for situations requiring maximum pellet density.
• Modified (M): A versatile middle-ground choke, excellent for a wide range of waterfowl distances, offering a balanced pattern.
• Improved Cylinder (IC): Delivers a wider, more open pattern, perfect for close-range flushing birds or when shooting over decoys.

Having these interchangeable chokes ensures you're prepared for any scenario the marsh throws at you.

Capacity and Chambering

With a 4+1 capacity, the Weatherby Element Waterfowl meets common hunting regulations while providing ample firepower for multiple bird flushes. The 3-inch chamber accommodates a wide variety of modern shotgun ammunition, including magnum loads, ensuring you have the flexibility to choose the right shell for the job, from standard loads to high-performance steel shot. The durable steel receiver provides a robust foundation for this semi-automatic action.

Maintaining Your Weatherby Element Shotgun

While the inertia system is designed for minimal maintenance, a few simple steps will ensure your Weatherby Element Waterfowl provides years of reliable service:

• Regular Cleaning: After each outing, especially in wet or muddy conditions, wipe down the exterior surfaces. Pay attention to the bore and action, using appropriate solvents and lubricants. The chrome-lined barrel significantly simplifies bore cleaning.
• Choke Care: Periodically remove and clean your choke tubes to prevent them from seizing in the barrel. Apply a thin coat of choke tube grease before reinserting.
• Storage: Store the shotgun in a clean, dry environment, ideally in a gun safe, to protect it from moisture and unauthorized access.

Your Trusted Hunting Partner from DEGuns

The Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge (UPC: 747115425297) is more than just a firearm; it's a meticulously crafted tool designed to enhance your waterfowl hunting experience. Its combination of Weatherby's signature fit and finish, the robust inertia-operated action, lightweight design, and comprehensive Realtree Max-5 camouflage makes it an unparalleled choice for hunters who demand performance and reliability.

Whether you're braving the pre-dawn chill in a duck blind or navigating the expansive fields for geese, the Weatherby Element Waterfowl provides the confidence that comes with a shotgun engineered for excellence. This superb hunting companion is available for purchase at DEGuns.com, where you can find this and other high-quality firearms to elevate your outdoor adventures.

Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20 Gauge Specifications