The Weatherby Orion I delivers reliable over/under performance for upland hunting and sporting clays with its traditional break-open design and premium walnut construction. This 20-gauge shotgun combines Weatherby's proven reliability with classic aesthetics that appeal to discerning hunters and sport shooters.
What Makes This Different
The Orion I features a low-profile steel receiver with hand-engraved accents that provide both durability and refined appearance. Unlike basic field guns, this model includes a ventilated rib barrel system that reduces heat mirage and improves target acquisition. The Prince of Wales grip design offers superior control compared to straight English stocks, particularly during rapid follow-up shots.
Key Features
- 28-inch blued barrel with ventilated rib for improved sight picture
- Grade A American walnut stock with hand-checkered grip surfaces
- 3-inch chamber capability handles both 2¾" and 3" shells
- Single selective trigger with barrel selector mechanism
- Automatic ejectors for quick shell removal after firing
- Low-profile receiver reduces overall weight and improves balance
- Blued steel finish provides corrosion resistance in field conditions
Field testing shows consistent patterns with both target loads and hunting ammunition across various choke configurations. The 28-inch barrel length provides optimal velocity for waterfowl hunting while maintaining swing characteristics suitable for upland birds. Weather-sealed action components resist moisture infiltration during extended hunting seasons.
Technical Specs
- Gauge: 20-gauge with 3-inch chamber
- Action: Break-open over/under configuration
- Barrel Length: 28 inches with ventilated rib
- Overall Length: Approximately 45 inches
- Weight: 6.5-7.0 pounds (estimated)
- Stock: Grade A walnut with Prince of Wales grip
- Finish: Traditional blued steel throughout
- Chokes: Accepts standard Invector-style tubes
- Safety: Tang-mounted manual safety
This Orion I represents solid value in the over/under category without compromising essential features that serious shooters require. Current inventory levels make immediate availability uncertain for this popular configuration.