WINCHESTER SXP
Posted May 19, 2023
Although pump shotguns have a long history of popularity, the capacity to rapidly eject and re-load shot-shells is an important part of modern era shooting. Whether it is for home defense, hunting, or just recreational shooting, the Winchester SXP pump shotgun has become one of the leading options in this style of firearm. The SXP is a highly affordable shotgun platform that is reliable, durable and capable of rapid fire.
Starting with the design, the Winchester SXP is a magazine-fed pump-action shotgun that uses a rotating bolt with dual action bars. The 12-gauge model is about 40 inches long, with a 14-inch barrel length, and has a black synthetic stock. The barrel and magazine tube are both constructed from steel and are nickel-plated for extra protection. Chambered for up to 3-inch shells, it has the capability of cycling faster than most other pump shotguns due to its large shell capacity. The design of the SXP also allows easy access to its release and loading ports by simply pushing on the loading gate button without having to open the action.
In terms of features, the SXP comes with a few options. The “extra bar” model has a length of pull (LOP) adjustable via a synthetic padded recoil pad with two spacers to adjust the length. This is a great feature for those looking for a highly adjustable design for different sized shooters. The forearm and pistol grip are also synthetic, with the pistol-grip angle providing proper shooter grip angles. The rifle-style sights feature a large white circle on the front bead and a mid-bead for better target acquisition. The barrel comes threaded for either Remington 870 or Savage 360 accessories and the bolt handle is easily accessible from the top of the receiver and is grooved for easy manipulation. The SXP also features an ambidextrous safety switch located just above the trigger guard, and a two-round cutoff which allows for easy single-round loading.
The Winchester SXP is an affordable pump-action shotgun that performs as well as more expensive models. Most reports of the SXP have been positive, with few reports of issues related to jamming or misfiring. It is reliable enough to be used for home defense, as well as for recreational shooting. Its synthetic stock design is incredibly lightweight and comfortable to hold, and the rifle-style sights provide for an ease of target acquisition. Its capability of cycling faster than most pump-action shotguns is another plus, and its dual-action design allows for faster shooting. The SXP is also customizable with various accessories, and its trigger pull is crisp and relatively light.
Overall, the Winchester SXP is an affordable and reliable choice for recreational and home defense shooting. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver, and its magazine-fed action allows it to cycle faster than most pump-action shotguns. The SXP is well-made and features a number of adjustable components, making it a great choice for shooters of all sizes and of any experience level. This pump-action shotgun is quickly becoming one of the most popular models on the market, and with its great features, reasonable price, and reliable performance, it is easy to see why.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable – Winchester SXP shotguns are often considered to be one of the most budget-friendly shotguns on the market.
- Quick-Cycling – The Winchester SXP shotguns have a reputation for having a smooth and reliable cycling performance.
- Lightweight – Winchester SXP shotguns are lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport.
- Smooth Operation – The Winchester SXP shotguns feature a smooth action and short stroke, both of which make for a comfortable shooting experience.
Cons:
- Poor Stock Design – The stock designs of the Winchester SXP shotguns leave a lot to be desired, as they are often overly bulky and clunky.
- Low Round Capacity – The Winchester SXP shotguns are limited to no more than four rounds in the magazine tube, making them unsuitable for extended sessions.
- Limited Horsepower – Winchester SXP shotguns are limited in their range and power, due to their relatively low-powered cartridges.
Who Should Buy
The Winchester SXP is a shotgun that is designed to offer excellent performance at an affordable price. It is suitable for everyone, from amateur and professional shooters to hunters and home defense needs. The pump-action, 5-round capacity and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for defensive and recreational purposes. Those who should consider buying the Winchester SXP are those looking for an entry-level shotgun for casual shooting, hunting, or home defense.
Those who should not consider the Winchester SXP are those looking for a more serious tactical shotgun. Those looking for a higher capacity shotgun, adjustable features, and higher performance should consider models specifically designed for tactical use.
Comparisons
| WINCHESTER SXP | REMINGTON 870 | SAVAGE 212 | MOSSBERG 835 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauge: 12 | Gauge: 12 | Gauge: 12 | Gauge: 12 |
| Capacity: 5+1 | Capacity: 4+1 | Capacity: 2+1 | Capacity: 3+1 |
| Ammo Type: Shotgun Shells | Ammo Type: Shotgun Shells | Ammo Type: Shotgun Shells | Ammo Type: Shotgun Shells |
| Barrel Length: 28"/18" | Barrel Length: 28" | Barrel Length: 22" | Barrel Length: 28" |
| Overall Length: 49-1/2"/39-1/2" | Overall Length: 49" | Overall Length: 39" | Overall Length: 47-3/4" |
| Weight: 7.5 lbs. | Weight: 7.5 lbs. | Weight: 5.3 lbs. | Weight: 7.25 lbs. |
| Stock: Synthetic | Stock: Synthetic | Stock: Synthetic | Stock: Synthetic |
Features / Specs
• Gauge: 12 Gauge, 20 Gauge
• Barrel Length: 28"
• Chamber Size: 3" or 3 1/2"
• Capacity: 4+1
• Stock: Synthetic or Walnut
• Sight / Scope: Bead Sight or Front Fiber Optic Sight
• Overall Length: 48.5"
• Weight: 7 lbs. (12 Gauge) or 6 lbs. 10 oz. (20 Gauge)
Popular Accessories
shotguns?
- Sights/Optics (Red Dot, Rifle Scopes, etc)
- Magazine Extension Kits
- Recoil Pads
- Barrel Porting
- Forend Grips
- STI Recoil Reducers
- Light Mounts
- Shell, Ammo and Magazine Holders
- Sling Attachments
- Stock Spacers
Accuracy
The Winchester SXP is a dependable and accurate pump-action shotgun. The well-machined barrel and action ensures accuracy at ranges of up to 40 yards. The gun also features an adjustable length-of-pull, as well as a cross-bolt safety that allows for safe operation of the gun. Its rotary-bolt lockup action ensures consistent chambering and extraction. The quality components of the gun make it is a reliable and accurate firearm, and it is highly recommended for shooting clay targets, upland game, or skeet targets.
