First Look: Winchester SX4

by
posted on December 14, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
winchester_sx4_f.jpg

Winchester's Super X3 has served as the company's premier semi-automatic shotgun offering for what feels like eons now, and it has acquitted itself very well. That said, all eras come to an end eventually. Though the SX3 isn't quite taking a bow just yet, the sun will soon rise for another autoloading scattergun bearing the Winchester name—the just-announced Super X4. Here are five things you need to know.

1. It features improved ergonomics.
The Super X4 is designed to be lighter, slimmer and simply more ergonomic than its predecessor. The SX4’s balance point has been moved slightly forward to create a more fluid swing and allow for better target tracking and a smoother follow-through.

2. It further reduces felt recoil.
The latest edition of the Influx Technology Recoil Pad on the SX4 further reduces “felt recoil.” The rib structures located in the pad are designed to help direct and channel the recoil impulse, moving the comb down and away from the user’s cheek. The new pad also features a larger footprint, which spreads recoil forces over a wider area.

3. It features an Active Valve Gas System.
Like the SX3, the SX4 features an Active Valve Gas System, which automatically self-adjusts to allocate the exact gas pressure necessary to reliably cycle a wide range of loads commonly used for hunting and target shooting. The system allows the SX4 to achieve greater load diversity.

4. Four models will be available out of the gate.
Alongside a standard black synthetic model, consumers will see the SX4 Waterfowl Hunter (in Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades Camo), the SX4 Field and SX4 Field Compact (featuring a shorter length of pull).

5. Prices start just shy of $1,000.
The black synthetic, Field and Field Compact models ship with an MSRP of $939.99. The Waterfowl Hunter lists at $1,069.99.

Want to know more? Never fear. We'll have further coverage on the SX4 when it's officially debuted at SHOT Show 2017, and rest assured that it is due for a full review in an upcoming print edition of American Hunter. Stay tuned.

Latest

2W H2026 03 Hardware W3772 TAH 9510Lead
2W H2026 03 Hardware W3772 TAH 9510Lead

Hardware Review: Christensen Arms Evoke .375 H&H

A .375 H&H Magnum for less than $1,000 is a win for hunters on any continent, especially when it comes packed with features and has the sub-MOA accuracy potential of the American-made Evoke from Christensen Arms.

New for 2026: Avian-X Waterfowl Backpacks

Expanding its assortment to include soft goods in 2026, waterfowl brand Avian-X has announced an all-new lineup of packs specifically designed to keep waterfowl hunters organized, mobile and ready for anything.

Behind the Bullet: The .308 Norma Magnum

Norma’s ballistician Nils Kvale saw the wisdom of having the velocity and horsepower of the .300 H&H Magnum, but in a shorter, more affordable receiver, and used the H&H case to develop his .358 Norma Magnum in 1959 as well as the .308 Norma Magnum one year later. The .308 Norma Magnum closely resembles the wildcat .30-338 cartridge, though the shoulder of the former is located a bit more toward the base than that of the .308 Norma Magnum. Intrigued? Read on about this often unfairly overlooked hunting classic.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV

The Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV, from Browning Trail Cameras, promises direct video transmission and streamlined setup without adding complexity.

Is Wildcatting Right for You?

Dennis Bradley explores the potential benefits of going with a wildcat cartridge, using the .375 Raptor as a case study.

New for 2026: The Chiappa M1-22 Bushranger

Chiappa Firearms expands its rimfire lineup with the introduction of the Bushranger M1-22 Semi-Auto, a .22 LR rifle built to bridge familiar sporting ergonomics with modern accessory capability. The Bushranger is intended for recreational shooting, skill development and range use, but could also excel in the hands of any small game or varmint hunter.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.