Weatherby’s Athena and Orion over/under shotguns will feature design and performance enhancements at more affordable prices as a result of a new manufacturing agreement with Fausti Stefano Arms of Italy.
Fausti Stefano Arms replaces New SKB as Weatherby’s manufacturing partner for the Athena and Orion shotgun lines. Weatherby first teamed with Fausti in 2005 to produce side-by-side Athena D’Italia shotguns.
A key enhancement is the shotguns’ action—a unique and patented Rizzini four-lock system. Instead of the two locking points typical of Italian shotguns, the Rizzini action design has four points of engagement between the barrels and the receiver, creating a strong, rock-solid lockup for long, dependable service.
Another new feature: a sculpted frame head providing a custom touch normally reserved for high-grade over/under shotguns.
Also new will be barrels that are chrome lined for ease of cleaning and to better withstand the wear and tear of heavy use. Other barrel features remain the same: lengthened forcing cones to help reduce felt recoil, thereby curbing shooter fatigue and improving shot patterns; and ventilated side ribs to allow quicker cooling of the barrel during extended periods of shooting.
Enhancements to the stock include a thinned wrist and forend to improve handling qualities, and an increase to 22 lines per inch checkering for an additional custom touch.
Athena and Orion shotguns will continue to offer a stainless steel Integral Multi-Choke (IMC) system for tailoring choke patterns to shooting needs and various field situations. The thread pattern is Briley-compatible for extra versatility.
Suggested retail prices will range from $1,439 for the Orion Grade I to $3,499 for the Athena Grade IV. For more information contact a local Weatherby dealer or Weatherby, Inc., 1605 Commerce Way, Paso Robles, Calif. 93446; (805) 227-2600. Or, visit www.weatherby.com.
