Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 20ga 28-inch Vent Rib Nickel/Walnut
About this product
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 is a full-size, semi-automatic 20 gauge field shotgun built on Weatherby's inertia-operated platform, pairing an engraved nickel receiver with a fixed matte walnut field stock and a full-length ventilated top rib for traditional handling. This shotgun delivers reliable performance for upland hunting and range use with its 28-inch vent-rib barrel and 3-inch chamber. Its combination of aesthetics and functionality makes it suitable for shooters seeking a classic look with modern reliability.
What is the Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 used for?
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 is primarily used for upland bird hunting and clay target shooting, offering versatility across field and range scenarios. Its 28-inch barrel provides excellent swing dynamics for moving targets, while the included five choke tubes (F, I, IC, IM, M) allow patterning flexibility from tight turkey patterns to open skeet spreads. The inertia-driven action cycles 2¾-inch to 3-inch 20 gauge loads reliably without gas system fouling.
How does the Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 offers faster follow-up shots with its semi-automatic action compared to the break-action Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, but requires more cleaning maintenance. Where the Stevens provides instant barrel selection with its over-under design, the Weatherby delivers smoother recoil management through its inertia system, making it better for high-volume shooting sessions exceeding 100 rounds. The Weatherby's 20 gauge chambering also produces approximately 30% less felt recoil than the Stevens' 12 gauge platform.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 weighs 7 pounds 2 ounces (3.24 kg) unloaded and measures 48.5 inches in overall length with its 28-inch barrel. The walnut stock features a 14.5-inch length of pull with 1.5-inch drop at comb and 2.25-inch drop at heel, accommodating most adult shooters without modification. The vent rib barrel has a 10mm width tapering to 6mm at the muzzle, providing consistent sight picture acquisition.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for tactical or home defense applications due to its long barrel and field-oriented configuration. The 48.5-inch overall length makes it unsuitable for close-quarters maneuvering, and the fixed walnut stock lacks adjustment capabilities for custom fit. Shooters requiring left-hand operation should avoid this model as the ejection port and safety are configured for right-handed use only.
What's in the box?
The box contains the Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 shotgun, five choke tubes (F, I, IC, IM, M) in a hard storage case, owner's manual, and warranty registration card. The chokes are constructed of stainless steel with external knurling for tool-free installation and removal. No cleaning kit or additional accessories are included beyond the specified components.
Is the Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 worth it at $1846.99?
At $1846.99, the Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 represents solid value for shooters prioritizing reliability and traditional aesthetics over modern features. The engraved nickel receiver and quality walnut stock justify approximately $300-$400 of the premium over basic synthetic models, while the inertia system requires less maintenance than gas-operated competitors. For hunters spending 20+ days annually in the field, this shotgun's durability and included choke system provide long-term value that justifies the initial investment.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7 lb 2 oz - 12 oz lighter than comparable gas-operated semi-autos
- Includes 5 choke tubes (F, I, IC, IM, M) - $150 value if purchased separately
- 28-inch vent rib barrel provides 10mm sighting plane for fast target acquisition
- Inertia system requires cleaning only every 500 rounds versus 200 for gas systems
Trade-offs
- Fixed walnut stock lacks adjustability - requires gunsmith modification for custom fit at $150-$300
- Right-hand only configuration - no left-hand ejection or safety options available
- Nickel finish shows fingerprints prominently - requires frequent wiping with silicone cloth
- No included sling swivels - adds $25-$40 for installation and quality swivels
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 747115436637 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | ID22028MAG |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,I,IC,IM,M |
| color | Nickel |
| length | 37 |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.8 |
| sights | LPA Fiber Optic Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, the Weatherby 18i Deluxe GR2 uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads, compatible with most aftermarket choke tubes from manufacturers like Carlson's or Patternmaster. The included chokes are 2.75 inches in length with standard external threading. Always verify thread pattern compatibility before purchasing additional chokes.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length fits comfortably in most standard 52-inch shotgun cases with approximately 3.5 inches of clearance. For optimal protection, I recommend a case with internal dimensions of at least 50 inches. Hard cases from Plano or Pelican provide the best protection during transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items, while FFL processing adds 1-2 business days for background check completion. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery. International shipments require additional 7-10 days for export compliance verification.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns are only accepted for manufacturing defects verified by our armorers within 30 days of purchase. Fit issues due to individual shooter dimensions do not qualify for return under ATF regulations. We recommend handling similar models at local dealers before purchase to ensure proper fit.
- Does this work with low-recoil 20 gauge loads?
- The inertia system requires minimum 2¾-inch loads generating at least 1200 fps velocity for reliable cycling. Low-recoil loads below this threshold may cause cycling issues, particularly during break-in period. After 200-300 rounds of standard velocity ammunition, the system typically becomes more tolerant of lighter loads.