WINCHESTER SX4 CANTILEVER BUCK 20/22 SYN
About this product
The WINCHESTER SX4 CANTILEVER BUCK 20/22 SYN is a dedicated 20-gauge shotgun designed for waterfowl and turkey hunting, featuring a 22-inch cantilever barrel optimized for mounting optics and choke tubes for versatile patterning. Built on Winchester's reliable SX4 gas-operated platform, this synthetic-stocked shotgun balances recoil mitigation with the lightweight maneuverability required in flooded timber or dense brush. It ships with Winchester's Invector-Plus choke system and a factory-installed cantilever rail, allowing for immediate optic mounting without gunsmithing.
What is the WINCHESTER SX4 CANTILEVER BUCK 20/22 SYN used for?
This shotgun is engineered for waterfowl and turkey hunters who require precise shot placement at extended ranges, typically 40 to 60 yards. The cantilever rail allows for a stable optics platform, critical for slug shooting or tight turkey patterns, while the 20-gauge chambering reduces recoil by approximately 30% compared to a 12-gauge equivalent. Its synthetic stock and corrosion-resistant finish make it ideal for wet environments like marshlands or rainy hunts.
How does the WINCHESTER SX4 CANTILEVER BUCK 20/22 SYN compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The SX4 outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shots due to its gas-operated semi-automatic action, with a cyclic rate of 0.28 seconds between rounds versus manual ejection. However, the Stevens offers superior balance for clay targets with its 30-inch barrel and over-under design, making it better suited for skeet or sporting clays where weight distribution matters more than speed.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded and measures 46.5 inches in overall length with the 22-inch barrel. The receiver width is 1.75 inches at the optic rail mount, ensuring compatibility with most low-profile red dot sights, while the length of pull is 14.25 inches, fitting most adult shooters without adjustment.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not ideal for upland bird hunters who prioritize ultralight carry, as it weighs 1.2 pounds more than a dedicated field model like the Browning Silver Field. It’s also unsuitable for home defense due to its long barrel and specialized choke system, which patterns too tightly for close-quarters use under 15 yards.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three Invector-Plus choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a cantilever Picatinny rail pre-mounted to the barrel, and a 5-round magazine tube. You’ll need to supply your own optics, sling, and ammunition, as none are included beyond the factory test-fired casing.
Is the WINCHESTER SX4 CANTILEVER BUCK 20/22 SYN worth it at $1142.99?
At this price, it’s a justified investment for hunters who need a dedicated, optics-ready waterfowl gun without custom gunsmithing costs. The cantilever rail alone would add $200-$300 to a standard shotgun, and the gas system reduces felt recoil by roughly 40% compared to a pump-action, making it worth the premium over base models like the Stevens 334 series for high-volume shooters.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lb — 1.5 lb lighter than a Benelli M2 with similar features
- Gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by 40% versus pump shotguns
- Includes 3 choke tubes (IC, Mod, Full) — a $75 value if purchased separately
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb or length of pull — limits fit for smaller shooters
- No threaded barrel for suppressors — requires aftermarket modification costing $300+
- Magazine tube capacity is 5 rounds — 2 fewer than some competitors like the Beretta A400 Xtreme
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 048702010125 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 511215640 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 22 |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 37.5500 |
| package height | 3.7 |
| package width | 9.7 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 9.45 |
| sights | F: Fiber Optic R: Adjustable |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Winchester's Invector-Plus choke system, which is compatible with most aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's or Patternmaster. The threads are standardized to 0.825x32 TPI, allowing direct swaps without adapters. Always pattern test with new chokes at 40 yards to verify performance.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- No, the overall length of 46.5 inches requires a case with internal dimensions of at least 47 inches to avoid compression. I recommend Pelican's 1750 case or a similar hard-sided option with foam cutouts, as soft cases may not protect the cantilever rail during transport.
- How long does shipping take for this item?
- Shipping typically takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items via FedEx Ground, depending on your location relative to our Nevada warehouse. Signature confirmation is required for all firearm shipments per ATF regulations, so plan to be available for delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hunting style?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unused items in original packaging, but firearms require a restocking fee of 15% and must be shipped via an FFL holder. I advise renting or testing a similar model at a range like Range 702 in Las Vegas before purchase to avoid compatibility issues.
- Does this work with a Vortex Venom red dot sight?
- Yes, the cantilever rail is Picatinny-standard and will accommodate a Vortex Venom or similar micro red dot without issue. Mounting requires a torque wrench set to 18-20 in-lbs to avoid stripping the base screws, which Vortex includes with their sight purchase.