The Weatherby 18i Synthetic 12 Gauge is a semi-automatic shotgun built around an inertia-operated action that cuts recoil and cycles reliably across a range of loads. The matte black aluminum receiver pairs with a fixed synthetic stock that has a soft-touch cheek rest and aggressive grip texture for control during long sessions. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 18i Synthetic 
• Caliber: 12 Gauge 
• Action: Semi-Auto 
• Barrel Length: 28 inches 
• Capacity: 4+1 rounds (including one in the chamber) 
• Chamber Length: Accepts up to 3.5 inches (also compatible with 2.75" and 3" shells) 
• Overall Length: 49.25 inches 
• Weight: Approximately 7 lbs. 
• Receiver Material: Black Aluminum 
• Stock Type: Fixed Synthetic Stock with Matte Black Finish 
• Sights: Fiber Optic Front Sight 
• Safety Feature: Crossbolt Safety 
• Included Chokes: F, I, IC, IM, M 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The vent rib barrel aids sighting alignment and quick target acquisition. The fiber optic front sight stays visible in low or changing light, useful when tracking fast-moving targets. Five chokes are included -- F, I, IC, IM, and M -- covering everything from tight turkey patterns to open field shooting. The crossbolt safety is straightforward and well-positioned. 
 
This shotgun handles 2.75", 3", and 3.5" shells without adjustment, which matters if you switch between upland loads and waterfowl magnums.

Owners of the Weatherby 18i Black Synthetic tend to be broadly satisfied, with a few recurring complaints worth knowing about.

On the positive side, most users find the semi-auto action cycles smoothly across a range of ammunition types, and the lightweight synthetic stock holds up well in wet conditions. Quick follow-up shots are frequently mentioned as a strength, and several owners note the gun compares favorably in build quality to other shotguns in its price range.

The main criticisms center on recoil -- some shooters find it snappier than expected for a semi-auto, particularly lighter-framed shooters or those new to 12 gauge. There are also reports of a break-in period where the action can be finicky before it's properly worn in. Customer service experiences with Weatherby are mostly fine, though a handful of users have noted slower-than-expected response times on parts or warranty inquiries.