Description
The Johnny Stewart Winchester SX4 Duck Boat 28 12 Gauge is a purpose-built waterfowl shotgun designed for tight quarters in boats and blinds. This semi-automatic pairs a 28-inch barrel with an oversized bolt handle, bolt release, and drop-out trigger group for fast, gloved-hand operation in wet or cold conditions. It ships with three Invector-Plus choke tubes, a back-bored vent rib barrel for consistent patterns, and a fixed Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage stock. Chambered for 12 Gauge and 3-inch shells, it runs on the proven Active Valve gas system that cycles light target loads or heavy magnum waterfowl loads without adjustment.
| Manufacturer | Winchester Repeating Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | SX4 Waterfowl Extreme Duck Boat (Johnny Stewart) |
| Material | Aluminum alloy receiver, steel barrel, synthetic stock with Mossy Oak Bottomland camo |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, 2.75” and 3” shells, Invector-Plus choke system |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage (fixed) with corrosion-resistant barrel coating |
| Weight | 6 lb 12 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Oversized Controls – Enlarged bolt handle, bolt release, and trigger guard make operation natural with heavy gloves in a rain-soaked duck blind.
- Back-Bored Vent Rib Barrel – Reduces recoil and shot-to-shot deformation, delivering denser, more consistent patterns on fast-moving ducks.
- Active Valve Gas System – Self-regulating gas piston cycles everything from 1-ounce target loads to 3-inch magnum steel shot without cleaning or tuning.
- Invector-Plus Choke Tubes (3) – Includes Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder tubes so you can dial in pattern density for decoying or pass-shooting scenarios.
- Fixed Camouflage Stock & Sling Swivel Studs – Mossy Oak Bottomland camo won’t wear off, and studs let you attach a sling for hands-free carry in a jon boat.
Who It’s For
This shotgun fits the dedicated waterfowler who hunts from a layout boat, sneak box, or flooded timber blind. It’s for shooters who want a lightweight, fast-pointing semi-auto that resists rust and mud, and who need oversized controls for cold, wet conditions. If you’re a weekend duck hunter who likes the mobility of a 28-inch barrel in tight cover, this SX4 is a solid match.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Reliable cycling with mixed loads; corrosion-resistant camo finish; easy takedown without tools; low felt recoil from the Active Valve system.
- Cons: The fixed camo stock limits customization if you prefer a different pattern or an adjustable comb; the 28-inch barrel may feel muzzle-heavy for some shooters in tight blind windows.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | Johnny Stewart SX4 Duck Boat | Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 | Remington V3 Waterfowl Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 28 in | 26 in or 28 in | 28 in |
| Weight | 6 lb 12 oz | 7 lb 2 oz | 7 lb 4 oz |
| Gas System | Active Valve (self-cleaning) | Inertia-driven | Versaport gas |
| Choke System | Invector-Plus (3 tubes included) | Mobilchoke (5 tubes included) | Rem Choke (3 tubes included) |
| MSRP | $1,966.19 | $2,199 | $1,499 |
FAQ
Does this SX4 come with any choke tubes?
Yes, it ships with three Invector-Plus choke tubes: Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder. These cover most waterfowl hunting situations from open-water pass-shooting to close decoying.
Can I shoot steel shot through the back-bored barrel?
Yes. The barrel is chrome-lined and rated for steel shot. Just stick with the Invector-Plus steel-rated chokes included in the box for safe use.
Will this shotgun cycle light target loads reliably?
According to Winchester specs, the Active Valve gas system is designed to cycle 1-ounce target loads as well as 3-inch magnums. Many owners report 100% reliability with 1,200 fps loads after a short break-in of about 50 rounds.
Is the camouflage finish durable?
Yes. The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern is applied during stock molding and won’t peel or wear off like dip-coating. The metal surfaces have a corrosion-resistant coating that holds up to saltwater spray and mud.
What’s the barrel length on this model?
It’s a 28-inch barrel. That length balances swing speed and pattern density for waterfowl shooting, and fits well in a duck boat or layout blind.
Trust & Delivery
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days from order
- ✓ 30-day returns on unused, unfired shotguns
- ✓ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Semi Auto Shotguns | Waterfowl Shotguns | Winchester Shotguns
Last updated: April 2026
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