Winchester Super-X Model 1

Winchester Repeating Arms Company · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1974

Also known as: SX-1, Super X Model 1, Super-X 1

Overview

The Winchester Super-X Model 1 is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, produced in the United States from 1974 to 1981. Built around a fully machined steel receiver with a self-compensating short-stroke gas system, it earned a reputation as one of the smoothest-cycling and best-regulated autoloaders of its era. Offered in Field, Trap, and Skeet configurations with interchangeable 26, 28, or 30 inch ventilated-rib barrels, the SX-1 was expensive and heavy to build, which ultimately led to its discontinuation despite its excellent reputation among trap and skeet shooters.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3630 g (128.0 oz)
Overall Length1245 mm (49.02")
Barrel Length711 mm (27.99")
Action TypeGas Operated
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Action
Magazine Capacity4 rounds
Magazine TypeTubular
Muzzle Velocity400 m/s (1312 fps)
Muzzle Energy2560 J (1888 ft·lbf)
Effective Range40 m (44 yd)
Barrel RiflingSmoothbore
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWalnut
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Variants

Service history

Operators

Production

Estimated total produced: 85,000 · Production years: 1974-1981

Approximately 85,000 units produced before discontinuation.

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Discontinued: 1981

Notes

Widely regarded by collectors and clay-target shooters as one of the finest semi-automatic shotguns Winchester ever produced. Its costly all-steel, fully machined construction made it uneconomical against lighter, cheaper competitors, and it was dropped from the line in 1981.

Background

The Super-X Model 1 is often called the shotgun that was 'too good to survive' - its lavish, fully machined steel construction made it a favorite of serious clay shooters but too costly for Winchester to keep in production.