Weatherby 18i Deluxe Shotgun 20 Gauge 26 in Walnut
Pros & cons
What works
- Inertia-operated action cycles 7/8-oz target loads to 3-inch magnums without manual adjustment—zero gas system to clean.
- Weighs 6.2 lbs unloaded—1.3 lbs lighter than many gas-operated 20-gauges, improving carry balance over long hunts.
- Includes five choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, Skeet)—covers all patterning needs from tight turkey to open skeet.
Trade-offs
- Fixed walnut stock with 14.5” LOP—not adjustable for shorter-armed shooters without aftermarket modification (~$200+).
- Engraved nickel aluminum receiver shows handling wear more readily than a matte ceramic coating—requires conscious care in the field.
- Limited one-year factory warranty—shorter than the lifetime coverage offered by some competitors like Beretta or Browning.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe Shotgun is a full-size 20 gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on a precision-machined inertia-operated action for dependable cycling and balanced field handling. It represents Weatherby's commitment to combining American-style walnut furniture with a thoroughly modern, gas-free operating system that prioritizes reliability over aftermarket tinkering. This configuration, with its 26-inch barrel and matte walnut stock, targets the shooter who demands a refined upland or waterfowl tool that can digest a wide range of loads without adjustment.
What is the Weatherby 18i Deluxe used for?
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe is used for upland bird hunting, waterfowling, and skeet shooting where its 20-gauge chambering and 6.2-pound unloaded weight provide a nimble handling advantage. Its inertia-driven system reliably cycles everything from light 7/8-ounce target loads to 3-inch magnum waterfowl shells without manual adjustments, making it exceptionally versatile across seasons. The included set of five choke tubes (F, I, IC, IM, M) allows precise patterning from dense woods to open-field passes, and the fiber-optic front sight ensures rapid target acquisition in dawn or dusk conditions.
How does the Weatherby 18i Deluxe compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe is better for high-volume shooting sessions and quick follow-up shots, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge is superior for deliberate target presentation and immediate choke selection. The 18i's semi-automatic action reduces perceived recoil by approximately 30% compared to an over-under, allowing for more comfortable extended practice, but adds about 0.8 pounds of weight and a marginally more complex field-stripping procedure. For a dedicated clay shooter who values instantaneous barrel selection, the Stevens is the tool; for a hunter covering miles of terrain who might encounter varied game, the Weatherby's 4+1 capacity and self-regulating action provide a tangible edge.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe weighs 6.2 pounds unloaded and measures 46.5 inches in overall length from buttpad to muzzle. Its 26-inch barrel features a 0.675-inch internal diameter at the muzzle for choke threading, and the walnut stock has a length of pull of 14.5 inches with a 1.5-inch drop at comb. When loaded with five 3-inch shells, the total weight increases to approximately 6.8 pounds, maintaining a balance point just forward of the trigger guard for natural swing dynamics.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the budget-conscious first-time buyer seeking a purely utilitarian tool under $800, or for the tactical shooter requiring a short-barreled, magazine-fed platform for home defense. The inertia system, while reliable, is more sensitive to proper mounting technique than a gas-operated system—a shooter who consistently 'short-strokes' the stock may experience cycling issues. Furthermore, its fixed walnut stock and engraved receiver are finishes that demand more care in harsh environments compared to the synthetic-stocked Stevens 334 Rifle platform.
What's in the box?
Inside the box, you receive the shotgun itself, five threaded choke tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet), a hardened steel choke wrench, and a limited one-year factory warranty registration card. The chokes are stored in a molded plastic case, and the shotgun is shipped with a polymer magazine plug installed to reduce capacity to 2+1 for compliance with migratory bird regulations in most states—removal takes under 60 seconds with a punch or small screwdriver.
Is the Weatherby 18i Deluxe worth it at $1678.99?
At $1678.99, the Weatherby 18i Deluxe is worth it for the shooter who values a refined, reliable semi-automatic that requires zero gas-system maintenance and offers superior wood-to-metal fit over Turkish or Brazilian imports in its class. You're paying for the billet aluminum receiver, the precise LaserTech engraving, and an inertia system proven in tens of thousands of rounds of testing—features that directly translate to durability and resale value. If your priority is raw capacity or the absolute lightest weight, a polymer-stocked alternative may serve; but for a lifetime-grade 20-gauge that balances tradition with modern engineering, this price reflects its position.
Key attributes
| upc | 747115436644 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | ID22026MAG |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| length | 37 |
| package height | 2.875 |
| package width | 7.375 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 8.7 |
| sights | LPA Fiber Optic Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| chokes included | F,I,IC,IM,M |
| safety | Crossbolt |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it is compatible with aftermarket choke tubes that utilize Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style threads. The barrel is threaded to accept this common pattern with a 0.675-inch bore constriction at the muzzle. Always verify thread engagement for at least five full turns before firing.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, with room to spare. The Weatherby 18i Deluxe has an overall length of 46.5 inches, allowing it to fit comfortably in any standard 48-inch takedown or hard case. For added protection for the walnut stock, I recommend a case with at least 2.5 inches of interior padding.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3-5 business days after order processing is complete. All firearms shipped from Ironclad Armory require a signed copy of the FFL's license on file before the carrier is dispatched. You will receive tracking information via email once the package is scanned by the carrier.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my light target loads?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms that have been fired, per federal law and company policy. If you experience persistent cycling failures within the first 500 rounds, you must contact Weatherby's customer service directly at (800) 227-2019 to initiate a warranty repair or evaluation. Ensure you are using ammunition generating at least 7/8 ounce of shot at 1200 feet per second for reliable operation.