The Weatherby SORIX is a versatile, inertia-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for both right- and left-handed shooters. Its ambidextrous features, robust build, and customizable aesthetics make it a strong contender in the waterfowl hunting market. Users and experts praise its reliability, ease of use, and thoughtful design enhancements.

Company Background

Founded in 1945 by Roy Weatherby, Weatherby, Inc. has established itself as a premier manufacturer of high-quality firearms. Known for innovation and performance, the company has a rich history of producing rifles and shotguns that meet the rigorous demands of hunters and shooting enthusiasts worldwide.

Overview of the Weatherby SORIX Shotgun

The Weatherby SORIX, introduced in early 2024, represents a significant advancement in Weatherby’s shotgun lineup. Crafted in Italy, this inertia-operated semi-automatic shotgun is specifically engineered for waterfowl hunting. It features an ambidextrous design, allowing both right- and left-handed shooters to operate it with ease. The SORIX is available in 12-gauge and 20-gauge models, with chamber lengths accommodating 3-inch and 3.5-inch shells. Each model comes equipped with a 28-inch barrel, contributing to an overall length of 49 inches. The shotgun’s weight starts at 6.5 pounds for the 20-gauge and 7.1 pounds for the 12-gauge versions. Notably, the SORIX offers a 2+1 round magazine capacity and a 14.3-inch length of pull, which is particularly advantageous for hunters wearing heavier clothing in colder conditions.

One of the standout features of the SORIX is its user-centric design enhancements. The receiver incorporates an aggressive competition cut, facilitating quicker and more efficient reloading. Additionally, the shotgun is equipped with oversized controls, including a bolt release button, charging handle, and safety, ensuring seamless operation even in less-than-ideal conditions. The innovative SHIFT SYSTEM™ allows users to easily swap the charging handle and reverse the safety, providing a left-handed shooting experience without compromising functionality. Aesthetically, the SORIX boasts a durable Cerakote® finish on the receiver, barrel, and top rib, complemented by a hand-painted synthetic stock available in three distinct patterns: Midnight Marsh, Storm, and Slough. This combination of form and function underscores Weatherby’s commitment to delivering high-quality firearms that cater to the diverse needs of modern hunters.

Primary Product Category:

• Firearms → Shotguns

Subcategories:

• Hunting Shotguns: Designed for waterfowl and other game hunting.

• Semi-Automatic Shotguns: Inertia-driven, self-loading action.

• Ambidextrous Firearms: Reversible controls for left- and right-handed shooters.

Market Segment:

• Waterfowl Hunting Gear

• Sporting & Competition Shotguns

• Tactical & Versatile Firearms: For those seeking an all-purpose semi-auto shotgun.

Key Features

• Ambidextrous Design: The SORIX features Weatherby’s SHIFT SYSTEM, allowing users to switch the charging handle and safety to either side, accommodating both right- and left-handed shooters.

• Inertia-Operated Action: This system ensures reliable cycling with minimal maintenance, providing consistent performance in various conditions.

• Enhanced Controls: Oversized bolt release button and charging handle facilitate easy operation, even with gloved hands—a crucial feature for waterfowl hunters.

• Customizable Aesthetics: Hand-painted synthetic stocks are available in three distinct patterns—Midnight Marsh, Storm, and Slough—allowing hunters to choose a finish that best suits their environment and personal preference.

Featuring the unique SHIFT SYSTEM™, the SORIX allows effortless customization for both right- and left-handed shooters, enhancing versatility in the field.

Weatherby SORIX Technical Specifications

• Gauge Options: 12-gauge and 20-gauge

• Chamber Lengths: 3-inch and 3.5-inch (12-gauge); 3-inch (20-gauge)

• Barrel Length: 28 inches

• Overall Length: 49.75 inches

• Weight: Approximately 7 pounds (12-gauge with 28-inch barrel)

• Capacity: 4+1

• Finish: Cerakote metal with synthetic stock

• Price: Starting at $1,499

Expert Reviews

Field & Stream

Field & Stream‘s review of the Weatherby SORIX emphasizes its user-friendly design, particularly highlighting the shotgun’s easy loading mechanism. The SORIX features a milled-out loading port combined with a softer spring and shell latch, as well as a lifter designed to prevent finger snags. This thoughtful engineering ensures that reloading is swift and hassle-free, even when wearing bulky insulated gloves during late-season hunts. The reviewer noted that, regardless of the type of gloves worn—be it bare hands, thin shooting gloves, or heavy insulated ones—the lifter consistently operated smoothly without causing any snags.

In terms of shooting comfort, the SORIX is equipped with a soft, effective recoil pad, which contributes to a comfortable shooting experience, even when using heavy target loads. The shotgun’s weight and balance further enhance its handling, making it a versatile choice for various hunting scenarios. The reviewer found the SORIX easy to shoot well in both 12-gauge and 20-gauge configurations, with the point of impact closely aligning with the shooter’s aim, approximately a 65/35 pattern. This balance and accuracy make the SORIX a reliable companion across different hunting environments.

Gun Dog Magazine

Gun Dog Magazine‘s review of the Weatherby SORIX highlights its exceptional reliability, particularly its adeptness at cycling various types of ammunition without malfunction. The inertia-operated action of the SORIX is designed for simplicity and durability, ensuring consistent performance across different shooting conditions. This design choice minimizes the number of moving parts, reducing potential failure points and maintenance requirements. The magazine’s testing confirmed that the SORIX reliably cycles a range of loads, from light target shells to heavier hunting cartridges, making it a versatile option for hunters pursuing diverse game.

In addition to its mechanical dependability, the SORIX offers user-friendly features that enhance its versatility for all shooters. The standout SHIFT SYSTEM allows for quick and easy swapping of the oversized bolt handle and reversible safety to either side of the receiver. This ambidextrous configuration accommodates both right- and left-handed users, ensuring comfortable and intuitive operation. Such adaptability is particularly beneficial in hunting scenarios where swift, instinctive handling is crucial. Gun Dog Magazine commended these thoughtful design elements, noting that they significantly broaden the shotgun’s appeal across a wide spectrum of shooting enthusiasts.

Weatherby SORIX Field Testing Insights

During extensive field evaluations, the Weatherby SORIX showcased exceptional performance, particularly in high-volume snow goose hunts. Hunters subjected the shotgun to rigorous conditions, firing numerous rounds in rapid succession. Throughout these demanding sessions, the SORIX maintained flawless operation, with testers reporting zero malfunctions. This reliability underscores the shotgun’s robust engineering and suitability for intensive hunting scenarios.

One of the standout features appreciated by testers was the SORIX’s user-centric design, tailored for challenging environments. The shotgun is equipped with oversized controls, including an enlarged bolt-release button and charging handle. These enhancements facilitate easy manipulation, even when hunters are wearing thick gloves to combat cold weather. Such design considerations ensure that shooters can operate the firearm efficiently, minimizing fumbling and enhancing safety during critical moments.

The SORIX’s stock design also received commendation for its comfort and practicality. The synthetic stock features a soft-touch comb piece, providing a comfortable cheek weld that reduces shooter fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the stock’s textured grip areas offer a secure hold, essential for maintaining control in wet or muddy conditions commonly encountered in waterfowl hunting. These ergonomic features collectively contribute to a more enjoyable and effective shooting experience.

Overall, the Weatherby SORIX’s combination of mechanical reliability and thoughtful design elements makes it a formidable tool for hunters. Its performance in demanding field tests, such as high-volume snow goose hunts, highlights its capability to meet the rigorous demands of serious waterfowl enthusiasts. Whether in harsh weather or during intensive shooting sessions, the SORIX stands out as a dependable and user-friendly shotgun.

Positive Experiences

Users have lauded the SORIX for its ergonomic design and reliability. Many appreciate the ease of switching the charging handle and safety, making it a true ambidextrous firearm. The customizable stock patterns have also received positive remarks for both aesthetics and functionality.

Areas for Improvement

Some users have noted a desire for a softer comb insert to enhance comfort during extended shooting sessions. Additionally, while the reversible charging handle is a standout feature, a few left-handed shooters expressed a preference for a dedicated left-ejecting model.

Market Alternatives

In the realm of inertia-operated semi-automatic shotguns, the Benelli M2 and Beretta A300 stand out as formidable competitors, each with a well-established reputation for performance and reliability. The Benelli M2, renowned for its lightweight design and robust inertia-driven operating system, offers hunters a swift-handling firearm that excels in various hunting scenarios. Its sleek profile and dependable cycling make it a favored choice among enthusiasts seeking both functionality and ease of use.

The Beretta A300 series, particularly the A300 Ultima, has garnered attention for its balance of affordability and quality. Designed with features inspired by higher-end models, the A300 Ultima provides shooters with a reliable platform suitable for diverse hunting applications. Its gas-operated system ensures smooth recoil management, enhancing the shooting experience during extended sessions.

Both shotguns have undergone updates to meet the evolving needs of modern hunters. The Benelli M2’s recent enhancements include ergonomic improvements such as a redesigned stock and forend, contributing to better handling and user comfort. Similarly, the Beretta A300 Ultima incorporates modern features like an enlarged loading port and improved recoil pad, addressing user feedback to enhance overall performance.

When comparing the two, the choice often hinges on individual preferences regarding weight, recoil management, and handling characteristics. The Benelli M2’s inertia-driven system offers a lighter build with fewer moving parts, appealing to those prioritizing simplicity and ease of maintenance. In contrast, the Beretta A300’s gas-operated mechanism provides a different recoil impulse, which some shooters may find more comfortable. Ultimately, both models uphold their manufacturers’ legacies of producing reliable, high-quality shotguns suitable for a wide range of hunting endeavors.

Weatherby SORIX’s Competitive Edge

The Weatherby SORIX distinguishes itself with several unique features:

• Ambidextrous Design: The SHIFT SYSTEM allows users to switch the charging handle and safety to either side, accommodating both right- and left-handed shooters—a feature not commonly found in competitors.

• Enhanced Loading Mechanism: The SORIX features an enlarged loading port and a redesigned lifter, reducing the risk of “thumb bite” and facilitating faster, more comfortable reloading.

• Customizable Aesthetics: With hand-painted synthetic stocks available in patterns like Midnight Marsh, Storm, and Slough, the SORIX offers personalized styling options that set it apart from more traditionally finished competitors.

7. Weatherby SORIX Awards & Accomplishments

• NASGW Caliber Award for “Best New Shotgun of 2024”

• Field & Stream “Best Hunting Shotgun of 2024″

8. Weatherby SORIX Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Weatherby SORIX?
   
   

   • The Weatherby SORIX is an inertia-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for waterfowl hunting, featuring an ambidextrous design to accommodate both right- and left-handed shooters.

1. What gauges are available for the SORIX?
   
   

   • The SORIX is available in 12-gauge and 20-gauge models.

1. Can the SORIX handle different shell lengths?
   
   

   • Yes, the 12-gauge model accommodates 3-inch and 3.5-inch shells, while the 20-gauge model is designed for 3-inch shells.

1. How does the ambidextrous feature work?
   
   

   • The SORIX utilizes Weatherby’s SHIFT SYSTEM, allowing users to switch the charging handle and safety to either side, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters.

1. What are the available stock patterns?
   
   

   • The shotgun comes with hand-painted synthetic stocks in three patterns: Midnight Marsh, Storm, and Slough.

1. Is the SORIX suitable for extreme weather conditions?
   
   

   • Yes, the SORIX features a Cerakote finish on the metal components and a durable synthetic stock, enhancing its resistance to harsh environmental conditions.

1. What is the capacity of the SORIX shotgun?
   
   

   • The SORIX has a capacity of 2+1 rounds.

1. How does the SORIX compare to other inertia-operated shotguns?
   
   

   • The SORIX stands out with its true ambidextrous design, customizable aesthetics, and competitive pricing, distinguishing it from models like the Benelli M2 and Beretta A300.

1. What is the price range of the Weatherby SORIX?
   
   

   • The SORIX starts at $1,499.

1. Where can I purchase the SORIX?
   
   

   • The SORIX is available through authorized Weatherby dealers and major firearms retailers.

1. Is the Weatherby SORIX reliable?
   
   

   • The Weatherby SORIX has garnered positive feedback from both professional reviewers and early users, highlighting its reliability and performance. Gun Dog Magazine describes the SORIX as a “robust and reliable semiauto,” emphasizing its dependable operation in various hunting conditions

1. Where are Weatherby SORIX shotguns made?
   
   

   • The Weatherby SORIX is manufactured in Italy, leveraging the country’s renowned craftsmanship in firearms production. After the initial manufacturing process, the shotguns are sent to Weatherby’s headquarters in Sheridan, Wyoming, where the stocks undergo hand-painting and final assembly. This combination of Italian manufacturing and American finishing ensures that each SORIX shotgun meets Weatherby’s high standards of quality and performance.

1. What is the difference between the Weatherby 18i and the SORIX?
   
   

   • The Weatherby SORIX and 18i are both inertia-operated semi-automatic shotguns manufactured in Italy, but the SORIX introduces several enhancements tailored for waterfowl hunters. Notably, the SORIX features oversized controls, including an enlarged bolt handle and bolt release, facilitating easier operation with gloved hands. It also incorporates the SHIFT SYSTEM, allowing users to reposition the bolt handle and reverse the safety for ambidextrous use. Aesthetically, the SORIX offers a Cerakote finish and hand-painted synthetic stock in three distinct patterns: Midnight Marsh, Storm, and Slough. These upgrades make the SORIX a more versatile and user-friendly option compared to the 18i.

9. Wrap-Up

The Weatherby SORIX stands out as a meticulously engineered shotgun, tailored to meet the rigorous demands of waterfowl hunters. Its inertia-operated action ensures reliable performance across various hunting conditions, while the innovative SHIFT SYSTEM offers ambidextrous versatility, accommodating both right- and left-handed shooters with ease. The inclusion of oversized controls, such as the enlarged bolt handle and bolt release, enhances operational efficiency, particularly in challenging environments where quick, intuitive handling is crucial.

The SORIX’s design extends beyond functionality to address user comfort and aesthetics. The synthetic stock, featuring a soft-touch comb piece, provides a comfortable cheek weld, reducing shooter fatigue during extended sessions. Hand-painted in distinct patterns—Midnight Marsh, Storm, and Slough—the stock not only offers visual appeal but also ensures durability with its Cerakote finish on the receiver and barrel, protecting against harsh environmental elements.

Field tests have consistently demonstrated the SORIX’s exceptional performance. Reports highlight its flawless operation during high-volume shooting scenarios, with users noting minimal recoil and consistent accuracy. The shotgun’s ability to cycle various ammunition types without malfunction further underscores its reliability, making it a versatile tool for hunters targeting diverse game. Additionally, the user-friendly loading mechanism and ergonomic design have been praised for facilitating ease of use, even when wearing gloves in cold weather conditions.

Overall, the Weatherby SORIX embodies a harmonious blend of innovation, reliability, and user-centric design. Its thoughtful features cater to the nuanced needs of modern hunters, ensuring a dependable and enjoyable shooting experience. Whether navigating the marshes in pursuit of waterfowl or engaging in upland game hunting, the SORIX proves to be a formidable companion, reflecting Weatherby’s commitment to quality and performance in the field.