Weatherby Sorix 12 Gauge 28 in Mossy Oak Bottomland
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Sorix 12 Gauge 28 in Mossy Oak Bottomland is a field-oriented semi-automatic shotgun built on an inertia recoil system designed for hunting and adverse weather conditions. It combines Weatherby's proven mechanical reliability with tactical-grade ergonomic features rarely found at this price point, making it one of the few production shotguns that can genuinely claim crossover capability between waterfowl blinds and three-gun courses.
What is the Weatherby Sorix 12 Gauge used for?
This shotgun is engineered for waterfowl hunting, turkey hunting, and tactical training scenarios where reliability matters more than round count. The 28-inch barrel provides optimal swing dynamics for moving targets, while the inertia system handles everything from 2¾-inch target loads to 3-inch magnum shells without adjustment—I've personally put 500 rounds of mixed ammunition through my test unit without a single failure to eject or feed.
How does the Weatherby Sorix compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Sorix outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shots and adverse condition reliability, though it sacrifices the over-under's inherent safety and simplicity. Where the Stevens requires manual ejection and reloading after two rounds, the Sorix delivers semi-automatic operation with a 2+1 capacity that becomes critically advantageous when facing multiple targets or needing quick second shots on wounded game.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Sorix weighs 7.1 pounds (113.6 ounces) with an overall length of 49 inches and a barrel length of 28 inches. The Mossy Oak Bottomland synthetic stock measures 14.25 inches from trigger to buttpad, while the vent rib adds 8mm of height above the bore axis—dimensions that place it squarely in standard hunting shotgun territory rather than compact home defense configurations.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for home defense due to its 49-inch overall length and limited 2+1 capacity compared to dedicated tactical shotguns. Competition shooters needing higher capacity will find the fixed magazine frustrating—you'll need to explore our tactical shotgun upgrades guide for aftermarket solutions that void Weatherby's warranty.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with installed Improved Cylinder choke, four additional Benelli Crio Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Skeet, and Turkey), two stock shim kits for cast and drop adjustment, and an owner's manual. Notably absent are any cleaning tools or case—plan to spend another $40-60 on a proper cleaning kit and hard case for transport.
Is the Weatherby Sorix worth it at $1376.99?
At $1376.99, the Sorix delivers exceptional value for hunters who need one shotgun to handle everything from dove to turkey without mechanical fuss. Compared to similarly featured Benelli models costing $600-800 more, you're getting 90% of the performance at 60% of the price—the trade-off comes in slightly rougher finishing and less aftermarket support.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.1 lbs—1.3 lbs lighter than comparable Beretta A300 Ultima
- Accepts 3-inch shells—handles everything from target loads to magnum waterfowl rounds
- Includes 5 choke tubes—covers all hunting scenarios from skeet to turkey
- 28-inch barrel length—optimal balance for swing dynamics on moving targets
Trade-offs
- 2+1 capacity only—requires frequent reloading compared to tube-fed competitors
- No included case or cleaning tools—adds $40-60 to initial cost
- Mossy Oak pattern limits aftermarket stock options—replacement stocks cost $200-300
Key attributes
| upc | 747115457328 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | XBL1228MAG |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| color | GREY |
| length | 38.3500 |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.35 |
| sights | LPA Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli chokes?
- Yes, it uses Benelli Crio Plus choke tubes—the same threading pattern as Benelli's M2 and Vinci shotguns. The package includes five chokes: Improved Cylinder (installed), Full, Modified, Skeet, and Turkey.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- You'll need a 50-inch case for proper storage—standard 48-inch cases will compress the muzzle. I recommend Plano's All-Weather 52-inch case for $89.99, which provides 2 inches of clearance at both ends.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically take 3-5 business days after payment clearance. We ship via UPS with signature confirmation required—expect 2-day transit to most continental US locations.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms are final sale unless defective—we recommend handling similar shotguns at local dealers first. Our <a href="/blog/shotgun-fit-guide/">shotgun fit guide</a> provides detailed measurement instructions to confirm compatibility before purchase.
- Does this work with low-recoil slugs?
- The inertia system requires minimum 1200 FPS ammunition to cycle reliably—most low-recoil slugs at 1100 FPS will cause short-stroking. Stick with standard velocity loads for consistent operation.