BPS vs SX4

m1978

m1978

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So i'm looking at getting a hunting shotgun. it will be used to bust clays for fun from time to time as well. i'm looking at a 3" model either way. i've narrowed down the choices to the BPS or the SX4. Which would be the better choice and why? i also prefer less recoil if i can get it, and long term reliability i've been told should not be a problem with either.
 
I guess the question back would be: do you want a pump or a semi? (Unless you meant SXP)

I like the BPS, I've had a few and they've all been excellent. I'm also a fan of the bottom eject on the BPS.
 
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Number one question have you shot both guns . Also note that the bps hunter ( wood stocks ) has a different stock geometry than the synthetic bps so fit between the 2 will be a little different . I love the bps but can not seem to shoot one worth a ???? . It does not fit . The bps is going to be ultra reliabile as it is a truly over build gun and manually operated . I have had 3 hunters now just hoping I might find one that fit and shot where I looked .The sx3 is going to be a much softer shooting gun for sure as it is gas operated . From what I have read the sx4 is an sx3 in a new skin . So hopefully it shares the same reliability . As the sx3 is a top notch auto loader. Good luck in your decision .
 
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rembolt said:
Number one question have you shot both guns . Also note that the bps hunter ( wood stocks ) has a different stock geometry than the synthetic bps so fit between the 2 will be a little different . I love the bps but can not seem to shoot one worth a ???? . It does not fit . The bps is going to ultra reliabile as it is a truly over build gun and manually operated . I have had 3 hunters now just hoping I might find one that fit and shot where I looked .The sx3 is going to be a much softer shooting gun for sure as it is gas operated . From what I have read the sx4 is an sx3 in a new skin . So hopefully it shares the same reliability . As the sx3 is a top notch auto loader. Good luck in your decision .
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i have shot neither, but think i may go the sx4 route, since i imagine shooting clays would be much more pleasant.
 
The advantage in shooting clays with the SX-4 over the BPS is of course reduced felt recoil and a self loading action as opposed to pumping. If however you are adept at pumping with good basics of follow through a pump is not going to be a detriment but if you're one of those shooters who cannot work a pump without dropping it from your cheek and or shoulder to work the action the pump will not be your friend on doubles targets and fast fallow up shots.

Here is a review of the SX4 on youtube. After a few of the things this guy's pointed out based on my knowledge of shotguns I know I'd be taking a good hard look at the SX4 before dumping any money into one as well.

https://youtu.be/_CEw625keb8
 
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Have an sx3 and bps trap. I have taken a long look at the sx4 and I would avoid it - better guns for the same money I think. The bps trap is a fantastic gun and has a mag cut off if you care about that. My bps fits so well I use it for pheasant/grouse/bunny hunting despite the experts saying it is too long and heavy. I use the sx3 for bad weather and chasing hares in the winter.

The sx4 seems to be a cheaper version of the sx3.
 
found an sx4 for $880.00. its a black synthetic model. i'm not sure which auto can beat it for the dollar. the one that comes to mind on price point is the weatherby. What about a classic auto five w/chokes, would that be a good option?
 
stubblejumper said:
The SX-4 will produce significantly less felt recoil. I have an SX-3, and it has been extremely reliable.
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Agreed & same. Only thing I can add is that I have NEVER liked the BPS's aluminum vent rib, they are prone to damage easier.

But both are GREAT guns.

Cheers
Jay
 
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rembolt said:
Number one question have you shot both guns . Also note that the bps hunter ( wood stocks ) has a different stock geometry than the synthetic bps so fit between the 2 will be a little different . I love the bps but can not seem to shoot one worth a ???? . It does not fit . The bps is going to be ultra reliabile as it is a truly over build gun and manually operated . I have had 3 hunters now just hoping I might find one that fit and shot where I looked .The sx3 is going to be a much softer shooting gun for sure as it is gas operated . From what I have read the sx4 is an sx3 in a new skin . So hopefully it shares the same reliability . As the sx3 is a top notch auto loader. Good luck in your decision .
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The same difference in fit applies to the Winchesters as well, based on the experience I've had. My son (6' 0") has an SX3 Synthetic 3.5" chamber, I had a hankerin' for a new semi-auto shotgun, so I tried his and found that the fit, for me (I'm 6' 4"), was off a bit. So I shouldered an SX3 in the wood-stock "hunter" version (3.0"), and the fit was significantly better. The drop at the comb seems quite a bit different on mine, I never looked at the specs to be sure, but I ended up buying the SX3 wood stock version and have been happy with it.

My only grouch with the SX3's, in both wood and tupperware stocks, relates to the barrel finish - it scratches very easily, and shows bare metal with the slightest touch of barrel to anything it comes into contact with. Whatever happened to the old, deep-blue finishes on barrels and receivers? Rhetorical question - Browning accountants happened, to get cost out.
 
having handled an old time auto five, i have to say i really, really like that gun. i think i would like to track one down with interchangeable chokes and the ability to run steel shot.
 
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