Weatherby Orion Grade I 20 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun | 28-Inch Barrels, Electroless Nickel Receiver, Factory Engraved
Built by SKB in Japan during the 1990s, this first-generation Weatherby Orion Grade I pairs classic looks with field-ready engineering. Its electroless-nickel receiver carries factory scroll engraving and a flying pheasant vignette, while the 28-inch blued barrels wear a ventilated rib and screw-in chokes. A single selective gold-tone trigger, top-tang safety with barrel selector, and timed ejectors keep operation smooth and familiar. With a walnut stock set featuring a Prince-of-Wales grip and neutral cast for right-hand shooters, this Orion delivers the hallmark Weatherby fit and finish collectors seek.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: There is light rust visible in the chambers, and the walnut furniture shows scattered dings and scratches. Barrel fit remains tight, the locking mechanism has good life, and the ejectors are properly timed.
What’s Included
- Weatherby Orion Grade I 20 Gauge over/under shotgun
- Modified (M) and Improved Cylinder (IC) choke tubes installed
Weatherby introduced the Orion line to offer premium Japanese craftsmanship under its brand, and this early Grade I reflects that goal. The steel receiver’s electroless-nickel finish resists corrosion and highlights detailed scrollwork that frames a flying pheasant scene—factory engraving that distinguishes Grade I guns from plain models.
The dual-lug sliding-bar lock-up, a hallmark of SKB manufacturing, produces a solid, repeatable connection between barrels and receiver. Timed ejectors kick spent hulls clear when the action is opened, keeping reloads quick.
Barrels are cut for 3-inch chambers and fitted with screw-in choke tubes, making the gun adaptable for upland birds, clay targets, or small game. The included IC and M tubes cover most field situations, and the threads accept popular Briley aftermarket options.
A 14.25-inch length of pull and Prince-of-Wales grip give the stock a fast, instinctive feel, aided by a smooth rubber recoil pad.
Overall, this Orion Grade I offers collectors and shooters a well-balanced, elegantly finished over/under that blends Weatherby style with Japanese build quality.