WINCHESTER SX4

Posted May 19, 2023

Winchester SX4

Winchester’s latest semi-auto shotgun, the SX4, creates an interesting and compelling case for those in the market for a handy, reliable, and incredibly versatile shotgun that can be used for either hunting or home defense purposes. In this review, I’m going to take a look at this remarkable firearm from top to bottom to determine if it’s truly worth the investment.

First and foremost, even when looking at the SX4 purely from the exterior, it’s easy to see why this shotgun has become so popular. It features a sleek and modern look, yet the overall design is still undeniably Winchester in terms of the iconic, classic lines. The SX4 is a gas-operated shotgun that was built around Winchester’s reliable TrueVenon gas piston system. This system does not require any manual maintenance and will function reliably even after extended use without any degradation in performance.

The exterior features a striking black anodized finish and a short, light profile, which makes the SX4 an excellent choice for CQB (Close Quarters Battle) type activities. It also has a phenomenally designed bolt release; a large, easy to reach button located just above the trigger guard. The bolt release works in conjunction with the safety switch located at the top rear of the receiver.

Furthermore, the SX4 also features a number of other convenience features that are sure to appeal to most users. For instance, the shotgun comes with a set of interchangeable butt stocks; a standard length for patrolling or hunting, and a shorter, tactical length for CQB activities. The butt stocks are comfortable and offer good support for the user. Additionally, the SX4 has a robust set of threaded chokes that can provide a range of shot patterns. The barrel is also threaded to accept a wide variety of different muzzle attachments.

In terms of caliber offerings, the SX4 is available in both 12-gauge and 20-gauge configurations. The 12-gauge version has a 5+1 magazine capacity and the 20-gauge variant has a 4+1 magazine capacity. These are absolutely perfect for home defense scenarios, as well as shorter hunting trips. Additionally, the SX4 has an intuitive and reliable magazine release located at the very front of the trigger guard.

In terms of value, the SX4 is incredibly versatile and offers an impressive bang for the buck. It features all of the best features of much pricier firearms, yet it still remains quite affordable. It also has some nice aftermarket options available, such as an adjustable stock and improved magazine release.

Now, let’s move on to the performance aspect of the SX4. As a semi-auto shotgun, the SX4 is fairly reliable and surprisingly accurate. In terms of accuracy, the SX4’s TrueVenon gas piston system is incredibly well-tuned and provides excellent cycling of the shotgun. It’s also quite easy to control and manage, especially considering its gas system. The SX4 can easily handle all sorts of high-velocity target loads, and even low-recoil sporting clays. Additionally, the SX4 offers great pattern consistency with quality choke tubes.

In conclusion, the Winchester SX4 is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and incredibly versatile shotgun that can be used for either hunting or home defense purposes. It features a sleek and modern look, yet its classic Winchester lines remind us of its heritage. It also features all of the best features of much pricier firearms and offers impressive bang for the buck. Furthermore, in terms of performance, the SX4 is surprisingly accurate and incredibly reliable. For all these reasons, I would highly recommend the SX4 for anyone who is in the market for a reliable and versatile semi-auto shotgun.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Very reliable shotgun

• Smooth, reliable action

• Very accurate

• Great stock design

• Very comfortable for smaller shooters

• Easy maintenance

• Lightweight

• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited aftermarket support

• Heavier recoil than some competing models

• Some parts may be difficult to find

• Picatinny rail mounted mag release can snag on clothing

• Some versions may be difficult to disassemble

• Is not compatible with the inertia-driven system

Who Should Buy

Those who should buy the Winchester SX4 should be experienced hunters and shooters who are interested in a versatile, reliable shotgun with modern styling. It is an ideal choice for waterfowl, dove, and turkey hunting, as well as recreational shooting. The SX4 also features an 18.5-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber, making it well suited for personal defense and home protection.

Those who should not buy the Winchester SX4 should include beginners who may not yet be familiar with shotgun maintenance and operations. Additionally, those looking for a budget shotgun may wish to look elsewhere, as the SX4’s price tag is on the high end for a shotgun. Also, those who do not need or plan to take advantage of the advanced features offered by the manually operated SX4 should look at other Winchester shotguns.

Comparisons

	Winchester SX4	Similar Product 1	Similar Product 2	Similar Product 3
Gauge	12	12	12	20
Weight	7.5 lbs	8 lbs	8 lbs	5.8 lbs
Barrel Length	28”	28''	30''	28”
Capacity	5+1	4+1	5+1	4+1
Magazine Type	Tubular	Tubular	Detachable	Detachable
Length	48.5”	48.5”	48.75”	41.75”

Features / Specs

• Gauge: 12

• Barrel Length: 28"

• Capacity: 4+1

• Weight: 7.25 lbs

• Finish: Realtree Max-5 • Stock: Realtree Max-5 composite

• Length of Pull: 14-3/8"

• Drop at Heel: 2-3/8"

• Drop at Comb: 1-1/2"

• Chamber: 3"

• Chokes: Invector™-Plus Flush, Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder

Popular Accessories

DECO FONT SHOTGUN

Choke Tubes

Recoil Pads

Shell Catchers

Magazine Extensions

Integrated Scope Rails

Sling Swivels

Stock Spacers

Stock Shim Kits

Barrel Shrouds

Rail Covers

Accuracy

The Winchester SX4 is a reliable and accurate shotgun. Its excellent balance and low recoil action make it a pleasure to shoot. It also features a self-adjusting gas system that helps reduce felt recoil for more comfortable shooting. The stock trigger system is one of the best on the market, providing a smooth and consistent trigger pull every time, and minimizing shot group size to make the SX4 a very accurate shotgun. In terms of accuracy, users have reported 0.7-1.3” groups at 25 yards using slugs, and 0.75-0.2” groups at 25 yards with buckshot. With these results, the Winchester SX4 is good enough for home defense, skeet shooting, and hunting applications.