A Legacy of Excellence: Introducing the Contenders
The roar of the shotgun, the shattering of the clay, the thrill of the trap range – these are the elements that draw shooters back again and again. Choosing the right shotgun can significantly impact your performance and enjoyment of the sport. The landscape of trap shooting is populated by legendary firearms, and two names frequently rise to the top: the Winchester SXP Trap and the Remington 870. This article will delve deep into the features, performance, and suitability of these two prominent pump-action shotguns, helping you determine which one best aligns with your needs and aspirations in the world of competitive or recreational trap shooting.
Shotguns, in their various forms, have long been a staple in the world of firearms. From hunting to self-defense and, of course, the competitive arena of trap shooting, the shotgun’s versatility has cemented its place in history. Among the many types of shotguns, the pump-action has a special place due to its inherent reliability, speed of operation, and ease of use, making it a favorite for beginners and seasoned shooters alike.
The quest to break clays is a constant pursuit, demanding the right tool for the job. The choice of shotgun is often the first and most significant decision a trap shooter must make. This choice hinges on a combination of factors: reliability, handling, fit, and performance. The Winchester SXP Trap and the Remington 870 have consistently been in the discussion, each offering a unique blend of characteristics that appeal to different styles of shooters.
A Deeper Dive into the Remington 870
The Remington 870 holds an almost mythical status in the world of shotguns. It’s a firearm that has been around for generations, with a storied history that speaks to its enduring quality and design. Launched in the early nineteen-fifties, the Remington 870 quickly captured the attention of hunters, law enforcement, and competitive shooters. Its ruggedness and ability to cycle various types of ammunition made it an instant success. The sheer number of 870s in circulation is a testament to its popularity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
The heart of the 870 is its pump-action mechanism. The system is known for its straightforward design and robust build, making it a dependable option for diverse applications. A steel receiver forms the backbone of the 870, providing exceptional strength and durability. Internally, the design is relatively simple and consists of a bolt that locks into the barrel extension, ensuring a secure and reliable lockup. The action is known to function smoothly, providing a consistent and predictable feel for the shooter.
The reputation of the Remington 870 is built on its versatility and affordability. The shotgun is available in numerous configurations, from hunting models with long barrels to tactical variants optimized for close-quarters use. The range of choices is vast, which is a part of its appeal to a wide range of shooters. The 870 is also frequently seen as a gateway firearm; affordable enough for a novice to get started with, yet reliable enough to carry on with as they become more seasoned. The availability of aftermarket parts and accessories further expands the potential for customization, allowing shooters to fine-tune the 870 to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Exploring the Winchester SXP Trap
The Winchester SXP series entered the market more recently, representing a modern approach to the pump-action shotgun design. While not as historically rich as the Remington 870, the SXP quickly garnered attention for its impressive speed of operation and its focus on performance. The “Super-X Pump” action is the central feature of the SXP, and it’s what defines its character.
The core of the SXP’s action relies on a robust design that delivers a remarkably fast cycling time. The engineers at Winchester wanted to create a firearm that would provide a competitive advantage. This pump action is designed to minimize the time between shots, allowing the shooter to get back on target quickly, a significant advantage in trap shooting where follow-up shots are critical.
The SXP Trap is specifically designed for the rigors of trap shooting. Features like an adjustable comb and a high-quality ported barrel are often incorporated to optimize the shooting experience. The adjustable comb allows shooters to fine-tune the stock’s height, ensuring proper alignment with the sights. The SXP models are designed to provide a modern and attractive aesthetic, further enhancing the overall experience.
Comparing Action, Feel, and Functionality
The action is what makes a pump-action a pump-action. The Remington 870’s action, as mentioned, is known for its rugged simplicity. It’s a smooth and dependable action, with a proven track record of reliability under various conditions. The Remington 870 is often lauded for its ability to handle a wide range of ammunition types, which provides a shooter with flexibility. The 870’s action is a hallmark of the brand.
The Winchester SXP Trap, in contrast, focuses on speed. The Super-X Pump action claims a remarkably fast cycling time, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. This rapid cycling action can be a significant advantage in trap shooting, where a fast second shot can make the difference between hitting or missing the target. The SXP’s action is often described as feeling lighter and easier to cycle than some traditional pump shotguns.
When it comes to how the gun feels in the hands, the Remington 870 provides a classic, familiar experience. The balance of the 870, the feel of the stock, and the grip have been perfected over decades. The ergonomics are generally well-regarded, and the shotgun feels comfortable in most shooters’ hands. The weight and feel are familiar to anyone who has handled a pump-action firearm before.
The Winchester SXP Trap offers a modern take on ergonomics. The adjustable comb is a significant feature, as it allows for a customized fit. This adjustability ensures that the shooter can achieve the proper sight alignment, which is a critical component of effective shooting. The design of the SXP is generally more streamlined, with a focus on reducing weight and optimizing handling.
Examining Barrels, Chokes, and Sight Pictures
The barrel and chokes play a pivotal role in a shotgun’s performance. The Remington 870 generally has barrel options that are tailored to the sport, offering lengths and choke variations that cater to diverse applications, including trap shooting. The 870’s modular nature allows shooters to swap barrels if needed.
The Winchester SXP Trap typically comes equipped with features specifically designed for trap shooting. Ported barrels and improved chokes are often incorporated into the design, and they contribute to reducing recoil and improving patterns. The combination of barrel and choke options is geared towards delivering consistent and effective patterns at the distances common in trap shooting.
The sights also play a critical role in accuracy. The Remington 870 often includes a simple bead sight. The bead provides a basic aiming point, which works well for general shooting tasks. Some models may offer more sophisticated sight options, depending on their configuration.
The Winchester SXP Trap may feature a higher-profile front bead combined with a mid-bead. This combination helps the shooter maintain a proper sight picture. The high-profile sight is designed to be easy to acquire and align with the target, promoting faster target acquisition.
Stock and Fit: Personalizing Your Shotgun
The stock of the shotgun is critical. The Remington 870 can be found with various stock options, including wood and synthetic stocks. Many shooters can customize the stock with aftermarket upgrades. The stock’s length of pull, drop, and cast are factors that directly affect how the shotgun fits the shooter.
The Winchester SXP Trap models usually come with an adjustable comb, providing a significant advantage for trap shooters. An adjustable comb allows the shooter to fine-tune the height of the comb to ensure proper sight alignment. The adjustable comb is a key feature because it helps the shooter to get a more precise sight picture.
Pricing, Value, and the Bottom Line
The Remington 870, due to its established presence, is often available at a very competitive price point. The affordability of the 870, combined with its ruggedness and reliability, makes it an excellent value proposition, particularly for beginners. Parts are widely available, so repairs are usually inexpensive and easy to perform.
The Winchester SXP Trap, while generally competitively priced, may have a slight premium over the 870. The inclusion of trap-specific features, such as the adjustable comb and ported barrel, adds value. The SXP Trap is an excellent option for shooters looking for a dedicated trap gun with high-performance capabilities.
Performance on the Trap Range: A Direct Comparison
The shooting experience with each shotgun is distinct. The Remington 870 offers a familiar, predictable feel. The 870’s operation is smooth and reliable, allowing shooters to focus on the target.
The Winchester SXP Trap gives shooters the experience of rapid cycling. The SXP’s action allows for fast follow-up shots, which is beneficial in trap shooting. The recoil might feel slightly less pronounced due to the barrel features.
Accuracy and consistency are critical for trap shooting. The Remington 870, with its established design, can deliver excellent results in the hands of a competent shooter. The shotgun is capable of producing tight, consistent patterns.
The Winchester SXP Trap is designed for consistent performance. Its faster action and trap-specific features can translate into quicker target acquisition and improved follow-up shots.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Remington 870’s strengths lie in its robust reliability and adaptability. However, it may not be as fast to cycle. Its customizability and affordability are significant advantages.
The Winchester SXP Trap offers a major benefit with its fast action. Trap-specific features enhance the shooting experience. Customization is possible but may not be as extensive as with the Remington 870.
Concluding the Comparison
The Winchester SXP Trap and the Remington 870 are both exceptional shotguns. The best choice depends on the shooter’s individual needs, preferences, and priorities.
For shooters seeking an affordable and reliable shotgun, the Remington 870 remains a top choice. The 870 is an outstanding option for both beginners and experienced shooters.
For those seeking a dedicated trap gun with rapid cycling and trap-specific features, the Winchester SXP Trap is an excellent option.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which shotgun is right for you is to handle and shoot both. Consider visiting a local gun range or retailer to try them out and get a feel for each one.
