Let’s Talk About Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension
The Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension promises to increase your shotgun’s capacity, giving you more firepower in critical situations. As someone who’s spent years in the outdoors and tactical fields, I’ve always appreciated the value of increased capacity in a defensive or hunting scenario. This extension aims to boost your Winchester SXP’s round count, offering a tactical advantage and potentially a more enjoyable experience at the range.
I decided to try the Choate Tool extension because my Winchester SXP, while reliable, felt limited in its standard capacity. The need for increased capacity became clear during a recent hog hunt, where follow-up shots were crucial and reloading slowed me down. The promise of adding five extra shotshells was too good to ignore.
Unboxing revealed a blued steel tube, a spring, and a new follower. The steel felt robust, although the bluing seemed somewhat basic. Initial impressions were decent; it felt like a functional piece of equipment, but I wasn’t blown away by its aesthetic appeal.
Compared to similar extensions from brands like Nordic Components or TacStar, the Choate Tool option felt less refined. However, it was also significantly more affordable, which swayed my decision. My initial thought was cautiously optimistic – hoping that the value proposition would outweigh any potential shortcomings in finish or design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension was at my local shooting range. Installation required some work as I needed to drill out the factory dimples in the OEM tube. This step was a bit more involved than I had anticipated.
The range day was initially frustrating due to some cycling issues caused by the dimples. Once smoothed, however, the extended magazine functioned reliably. Dry firing drills and some quick target acquisition practice showed promise in increased capacity.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor scratches on the blued finish, but nothing that impacts functionality. The tube remains firmly attached, and the spring shows no signs of weakening.
Maintenance involves occasional cleaning and lubrication of the extension tube and spring. The blued finish, while not the most durable, is relatively easy to wipe down and protect with a light coat of oil. Compared to my previous experiences with some other extensions, this one has proven to be more reliable over time, particularly after addressing the initial installation challenges.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension
Specifications
The Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension is specifically designed for the Winchester SXP Super X Pump shotgun. It features a blued finish and is made from machined steel, promising durability. The extension increases the magazine capacity by five shotshells and is made in the USA.
These specifications are crucial for a few reasons. The steel construction ensures that the extension can withstand the rigors of repeated use. The added capacity of five shotshells dramatically increases the shotgun’s tactical effectiveness. And the fact that it’s made in the USA is often seen as a sign of quality craftsmanship and material sourcing.
Performance & Functionality
When properly installed, the Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension does exactly what it’s supposed to do: it increases your shotgun’s capacity. Reliability is good once the factory dimples in the original magazine tube are properly addressed.
The main strength is the increased firepower it provides. However, the initial installation process can be challenging, and the blued finish isn’t the most durable. Overall, it meets expectations for its price point, offering a cost-effective way to enhance your SXP’s capabilities.
Design & Ergonomics
The Choate Tool extension has a straightforward, functional design. The steel construction adds a bit of weight to the front of the shotgun, which some may find beneficial for recoil management. The blued finish is simple and utilitarian.
The installation process isn’t particularly user-friendly, requiring some degree of gunsmithing skills or at least a willingness to watch YouTube tutorials. The need to modify the factory tube is a significant drawback.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests that the Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension should last for many years with proper care. The blued finish is prone to scratches and wear, but the steel itself is robust. Maintaining it involves regular cleaning and lubrication to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool extension itself doesn’t come with many accessories. It’s a standalone product designed to increase capacity. However, it’s compatible with various aftermarket followers and sling mounts that attach to the extension tube. The extension tube accepts standard barrel clamps for added stability and mounting points for accessories.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine ExtensionPros
- Increases magazine capacity by 5 rounds.
- Durable steel construction.
- Affordable price point.
- Made in the USA.
- Compatible with various aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- Installation requires modification of the factory magazine tube.
- Blued finish is not very durable.
- May add noticeable weight to the front of the shotgun.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension?
Pros
- Increases magazine capacity by 5 rounds.
- Durable steel construction.
- Affordable price point.
- Made in the USA.
- Compatible with various aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- Installation requires modification of the factory magazine tube.
- Blued finish is not very durable.
- May add noticeable weight to the front of the shotgun.
The Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension is perfect for hunters who want increased firepower for follow-up shots, tactical shooters seeking a higher capacity shotgun for defensive purposes, and recreational shooters who want to spend less time reloading at the range. It’s a solid option for those comfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer a simple, drop-in installation without any modifications, or those who demand a high-end finish and are willing to pay a premium for it.
A must-have accessory for this extension is a barrel clamp to provide additional support and prevent excessive stress on the magazine tube.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension
The Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension offers a significant increase in firepower at an affordable price. While the installation process requires some effort and the blued finish isn’t the most durable, the core functionality is solid.
The value proposition is strong, especially for those willing to put in the work to properly install it. I would recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance their Winchester SXP’s capacity without breaking the bank, but with a clear understanding of the installation requirements. Consider the Choate Tool Winchester SXP SX Pump Magazine Extension if you’re looking to maximize your shotgun’s potential!