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

003 H16BBDE L Gun 01
003 H16BBDE L Gun 01

Hardware Review: Henry H17 Big Boy Deadeye Revolver

Good looks and tough construction go hand in hand with this classically styled, medium-framed wheel gun from Henry.

New for 2026: Bubba Pro Series Gen 2 Electric Fillet Knife

Bubba has introduced its Bubba Pro Series Gen 2 Electric Fillet Knife. Built from extensive feedback gathered from those who spend their time on the water, the Pro Series Gen 2 delivers enhanced ergonomics, greater control, improved cutting performance and expanded versatility than the original.

250th Anniversary Gear Roundup

Looking for some commemorative gear from America's semiquincentennial, that you'll continue to use for seasons to come? Look no further than out lineup of hunting gear celebrating America's 250th anniversary.

New for 2026: Kent Cartridge Ultimate Pheasant Load

Kent Cartridge has introduced Ultimate Pheasant, a load designed for dedicated pheasant and upland hunters. Built with Kent's proprietary Diamond Shot technology and a layered 4x6 shot payload, Ultimate Pheasant is engineered to deliver a balance of pattern density and retained energy.

#SundayGunday: Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Rifle

On this episode of #SundayGunday we’re focusing on survival, a survival rifle, that is. It’s called the Stowaway rifle, and it’s built by a company here in the USA called Dark Mountain Arms.

First Look: Friends of NRA Reach New Record in 2026

Friends of NRA has reached a historic milestone, welcoming more than 5 million attendees to its volunteer-led fundraising events since the program's founding in 1992.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.