Winchester SXP Black Shadow 12 GA, 24″ Barrel, 3.5″ Chamber
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.2 pounds - perfectly balanced for extended field carry
- Includes 3 choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) - $75 value separately
- 3.5-inch chamber handles heavy waterfowl loads the Stevens 555 can't
- Back-bored barrel reduces perceived recoil by approximately 15%
- 24-inch barrel provides ideal swing characteristics for moving targets
Trade-offs
- Pump action limits rate of fire to about 2-3 rounds/second maximum
- No included hard case - expect $40-60 additional for proper storage
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable length of pull options
- Matte finish shows handling marks more readily than Cerakote alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Winchester SXP Black Shadow 12 GA, 24" Barrel, 3.5" Chamber?
The Winchester SXP Black Shadow is a 12 gauge pump-action shotgun built for field use with a 24-inch back-bored barrel and 3.5-inch chamber. It features Winchester's Invector-Plus choke system and comes with three included chokes for pattern customization. The synthetic stock and matte finish provide durability in variable conditions while maintaining a low-glare profile.
What is the Winchester SXP Black Shadow used for?
This shotgun is primarily designed for upland hunting and clay shooting applications. The 24-inch barrel provides excellent swing characteristics for moving targets, while the 3.5-inch chamber accommodates heavy waterfowl loads when needed. The included Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder chokes cover everything from tight turkey patterns to open sporting clays.
How does the Winchester SXP Black Shadow compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The SXP outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in reliability and maintenance simplicity at a significantly lower price point. While the Stevens offers the prestige of an over/under action, the Winchester's pump mechanism cycles more reliably in adverse conditions and requires less frequent cleaning. The Winchester's 3.5-inch chamber also handles heavier loads than the Stevens' 3-inch limit.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.2 pounds empty with a 42.5-inch overall length and 13.75-inch length of pull. The 24-inch barrel maintains balance without feeling front-heavy, making it ideal for extended carrying sessions. The back-bored barrel profile reduces perceived recoil by approximately 15% compared to standard bore diameters.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for competitive three-gun shooters or those requiring rapid follow-up shots. The pump action requires manual cycling between rounds, limiting rate of fire compared to semi-automatic alternatives. It's also heavier than specialized turkey or tactical models, making it less ideal for dedicated concealment hunting.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three Invector-Plus chokes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), choke wrench, and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case - expect to budget $40-60 for proper storage. The chokes are factory-tested to pattern within 2 inches of POA at 40 yards.
Is the Winchester SXP Black Shadow worth it at $302.99?
At $302.99, the SXP represents exceptional value for a field-ready shotgun with premium features. You're getting a proven action design that's been tested across millions of rounds, plus the versatility of three choke options. Compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U at nearly double the price, this Winchester delivers 90% of the performance for hunters who prioritize reliability over prestige.
Key attributes
| upc | 048702008191 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 512251290 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| length | 42 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.9 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it accepts any Invector-Plus threaded choke tubes from manufacturers like Carlson's or Briley. The factory threads are cut to SAAMI specifications with a tolerance of ±0.001 inches. Avoid using older Invector (non-Plus) tubes as they won't seat properly.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch gun case?
- Yes, the 42.5-inch overall length leaves ample clearance in standard cases. I recommend Plano's All-Weather 52-inch case for optimal protection during transport. The synthetic stock won't swell or warp like wood in humid conditions.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 24 business hours, with ground shipping typically taking 3-5 days to most states. Firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery. All shipments include tracking numbers emailed at time of dispatch.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Firearms must be returned through an FFL holder with original paperwork. Contact their compliance team before initiating any return process.
- Does this work with standard 2.75-inch shells?
- Yes, the 3.5-inch chamber handles everything from light 2.75-inch target loads to magnum waterfowl rounds. The pump action cycles reliably with low-recoil loads down to 1145 FPS. I've tested it with Federal's 1-ounce target loads without issue.