What are the load requirements for my semi-auto shotgun?

It has always been difficult to get a single valve system to effectively cycle everything from ¾ oz. through heavy 3″ magnum loads. Our SA-08™ is specially-designed with a unique dual valve system. This lets you quickly change the valve to adjust for different loads, species or seasons. A key benefit of this dual valve system is how it manages  and reduces recoil compared to single valve shotguns. With its simple design, the SA-08™ is also one of the easiest semi-autos to clean, which is a critical component for dependable performance in the field. The SA-08™ is the most versatile autoloader you can carry, and a real joy to shoot. 

*** SHOTGUNS RETURNED TO WEATHERBY FOR FUNCTIONALITY ISSUES STAND SUBJECT TO A $155 TESTING FEE TO COVER TIME AND RESOURCES USED, SHOULD NO ISSUES WITH FUNCTIONALITY BE FOUND ***

SA-08™ & ELEMENT Minimum Load Requirement

Gauge : Shot Weight – Velocity

12 Gauge : 1 1/8 oz. – 1300 FPS

20 Gauge : 7/8 oz. – 1300 FPS

28 Gauge : N/A – N/A

SA-459™ Minimum Load Requirement

Gauge : Shot Weight – Velocity

12 Gauge: 1 1/4 oz. – 1330 FPS

20 Gauge: 1 oz. – 1300 FPS

Most ammunition manufacturers will have their shotshell size, velocities, shot size, and weights published on the box. If they are not published on the box, we recommend contacting the manufacturer of the ammunition to get that information. An example of this can be seen below:

If you are unsure if the shotshells you have are a Heavy Load or Light Load, you should always test fire the shells with the Heavy Load piston installed first. If the shotgun cycles the ammunition with the Heavy Load piston installed, then continue to use the Heavy Load Piston. If the shotgun fails to cycle the shotshells with the Heavy Load Piston installed, you should then install the Light Load Piston, and use the Light Load Piston with those shells. If you are using shells below the minimum load requirements for your shotgun posted above, it is highly likely that the shotgun will fail to cycle those shells.