Weatherby Element 2 Upland 12ga 28in Walnut
About this product
The Weatherby Element 2 Upland 12ga 28in Walnut is a field-optimized semi-automatic shotgun built for upland bird and waterfowl hunting applications. It pairs a 28-inch vent-rib barrel with Weatherby's inertia-operated action system for reliable cycling across various hunting loads. The Turkish walnut field stock includes adjustable shims and recoil pad for personalized fitment and reduced perceived recoil.
What is the Weatherby Element 2 Upland used for?
This shotgun is designed specifically for upland bird hunting, waterfowl applications, and general field shooting where fast follow-up shots are essential. The 28-inch barrel provides excellent swing characteristics for wing shooting, while the inertia system handles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells reliably in varied conditions. With its 6.9-pound weight balanced forward of the action, it moves naturally through brush and fields without feeling muzzle-heavy.
How does the Weatherby Element 2 Upland compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Element 2 outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge in rapid target acquisition scenarios, offering faster follow-up shots through its semi-automatic action versus the over-under's manual operation. Where the Stevens excels in precise shot selection with two predetermined chokes, the Weatherby provides three-shot capacity and quicker cycling for flushing birds or multiple targets. For waterfowl hunting where volume shooting matters, the Weatherby's semi-auto function gives a distinct advantage worth the $200 price difference.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.9 pounds with an overall length of 48.5 inches from buttpad to muzzle. The 28-inch barrel features a 3-inch chamber and vent rib construction with chrome-lined bore for corrosion resistance. The walnut stock measures 14.25 inches from trigger to buttpad center, adjustable via included shims to accommodate different shooter builds and mounting styles.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for tactical or home defense applications where shorter barrels and higher capacities are preferred. The 28-inch barrel length makes indoor maneuvering impractical, and the 2+1 capacity falls short of defensive shotgun standards. Competition shooters requiring specialized chokes or extended magazine tubes should look to dedicated sporting models, as this configuration prioritizes field handling over competition features.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with three Crio Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), five stock adjustment shims for drop and cast customization, owner's manual, and cable lock. Each choke tube is clearly marked and features Weatherby's corrosion-resistant plating, while the shims allow for approximately 15 degrees of comb adjustment to suit individual cheek weld preferences.
Is the Weatherby Element 2 Upland worth it at $828.99?
At this price point, it represents solid value for hunters needing reliable semi-automatic performance without premium shotgun pricing. The combination of walnut furniture, proven inertia system, and field-ready features compares favorably to competitors costing $300-400 more. For shooters transitioning from pump actions or seeking their first semi-auto hunting shotgun, the Element 2 delivers Weatherby's reputation for reliability at an accessible price point.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.9 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than many competing semi-autos with similar barrel lengths
- 28-inch vent-rib barrel provides excellent sight plane and swing characteristics for bird hunting
- Inertia-operated system cycles reliably with loads from 1⅛ oz target loads to 3-inch magnums
- Includes three Crio Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) for shot patterning versatility
Trade-offs
- 2+1 capacity limits utility for high-volume hunting scenarios compared to 4+1 tactical models
- Walnut stock requires regular oil maintenance in wet conditions to prevent swelling or finish damage
- No threaded barrel for choke tube installation tools — requires separate purchase ($15-30)
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 747115457885 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | EU21228PGM |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.4000 |
| model | Element 2 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 8.9 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it accepts standard Beretta/Benelli Mobile choke tubes, which are widely available from manufacturers like Carlson's, Patternmaster, and Trulock. The included Crio Plus chokes use Weatherby's proprietary thread pattern but share compatibility with the industry-standard Mobile system. Replacement tubes typically range from $25-60 depending on constriction and manufacturer.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length fits comfortably in most standard 50-inch shotgun cases with adequate clearance for protection. For transport, I recommend cases with at least 2 inches of extra length to prevent muzzle or stock damage during handling. Plano's All-Weather 52-inch case provides ideal protection for field transportation.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses typically takes 3-5 business days after FFL verification and background check clearance. Expedited shipping options are available for an additional $25, reducing transit time to 2 business days. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit properly?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery for store credit, provided the firearm is in new, unfired condition with all original packaging and accessories. Fired firearms cannot be returned due to federal regulations regarding used gun sales. We recommend consulting our fitment guide or contacting our specialists before purchase to ensure proper sizing.