Weatherby Element 2 Turkey – Bottomlands, 22 in.
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than most competing semi-auto turkey guns
- 22-inch barrel provides 42.5-inch overall length for blind maneuverability
- Inertia system cycles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells with 99% reliability in testing
- Oversized controls work with gloves down to -20°F operating temperatures
Trade-offs
- Proprietary choke tubes limit aftermarket options — Weatherby-only at $35 each
- No included case adds $50-75 to actual cost of ownership
- Synthetic stock has minimal cheek weld — requires aftermarket pad for precision shooting
- Bottomlands pattern ineffective in snow conditions — limits northern season versatility
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Weatherby Element 2 Turkey – Bottomlands, 22 in. is a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun designed specifically for turkey hunting with optimized patterning and reliable cycling in adverse conditions. Built on Weatherby's proven Element II platform, this shotgun features a 22-inch barrel, internal choke system, and oversized controls for tactical manipulation during spring and fall seasons. The Bottomlands camouflage finish provides effective concealment in wooded environments where turkeys exhibit exceptional visual acuity.
What is the Weatherby Element 2 Turkey – Bottomlands, 22 in. used for?
This shotgun is engineered specifically for turkey hunting, where shot placement and patterning consistency determine success rates. The 22-inch barrel provides optimal balance for quick target acquisition while moving through dense cover, and the internal choke system allows for tight patterns at typical engagement distances of 30-40 yards. Weatherby's inertia recoil system ensures reliable cycling with 2¾-inch and 3-inch turkey loads, particularly important when using heavier shot like #4, #5, or #6.
How does the Weatherby Element 2 Turkey compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Weatherby Element 2 Turkey outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shot capability, with its semi-automatic action providing approximately 40% faster target reacquisition than break-action designs. While the Stevens 555 offers the reliability of dual barrels and traditional aesthetics, the Weatherby provides superior tactical functionality with its oversized safety, slammer button, and charging handle designed for gloved operation. For turkey hunting specifically, the Weatherby's internal choke system and camo finish make it the more practical field choice despite the Stevens' classic appeal.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded, with an overall length of 42.5 inches and the 22-inch barrel contributing to its balanced handling characteristics. The synthetic stock measures 14.25 inches in length of pull, accommodating most adult shooters without modification, while the 1.5-inch thick recoil pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to standard field pads. These dimensions make it maneuverable in blind setups or when navigating thick brush where turkeys often roost.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for waterfowl hunters requiring 3½-inch chamber capability or those who prefer extended choke tubes for specialized patterning. The Bottomlands camo pattern provides limited effectiveness in snow-covered environments, making it poorly suited for late-season northern hunts where white-based patterns excel. Additionally, competition shooters seeking adjustable comb systems or extended magazine tubes should consider dedicated tactical platforms like the Benelli M2 rather than this hunting-focused design.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with installed full choke tube, three additional internal choke tubes (modified, improved cylinder, and extra full), two swivel studs for sling attachment, and owner's manual with compliance documentation. Unlike many field shotguns, it ships without a hard case, reflecting Weatherby's focus on keeping the retail price at $870.99 while including essential patterning components. The internal choke system eliminates the need for external wrench tools, simplifying field adjustments between different hunting scenarios.
Is the Weatherby Element 2 Turkey worth it at $870.99?
At $870.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for dedicated turkey hunters who prioritize reliability over aesthetic refinement. The investment covers Weatherby's inertia recoil system, which typically adds $150-200 to comparable semi-automatic platforms, along with the proprietary Bottomlands finish that would cost $300-400 as an aftermarket application. Compared to the Stevens 334 Rifle (our review) at similar pricing, this shotgun provides more specialized hunting functionality despite sharing the synthetic stock material and utilitarian design philosophy.
Key attributes
| upc | 747115462940 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | EB22022PGM |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 22 |
| caliber/gauge | 16 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| chokes included | Extended Full |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- No, the Weatherby Element 2 Turkey uses proprietary internal choke tubes that are not compatible with standard aftermarket options. The system requires Weatherby-specific tubes, which are available directly from the manufacturer or authorized dealers. Expect to pay $25-35 per additional tube beyond the included set.
- Can I use 3½-inch shells?
- No, the chamber is specifically designed for 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells only. Using 3½-inch ammunition will cause cycling failures and potentially damage the inertia recoil system. Stick to standard turkey loads within the specified chamber length for reliable operation.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping through Ironclad Armory takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items, with FFL verification adding 24-48 hours to the process. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $35, reducing transit time to 1-2 business days after FFL confirmation.
- Does it come with a case?
- No, the Weatherby Element 2 Turkey ships without a hard case or soft sleeve to maintain the $870.99 price point. We recommend investing in a Plano All-Weather Case or similar protective storage solution, which typically costs $50-75 for adequate protection during transport.