Challenger FTExtract, Winchester SXP

[nullshine]

Hi All,

Anyone have any issues with Challenger loads failing to extract?

Ammo: Challenger Handicap High velocity, #7.5 (1-1/8 oz)
Firearm: Winchester SXP Field/Camp combo, 28" barrel installed

As I was nearing the end of a case of Federal Top Gun, I only had a few boxes left so I picked up a box of Challenger from Cabelas to try out as my new standard target load. Went out to shoot some clays and was getting about 1 in 3 of the Challengers failing to extract... I could pull the fore end back no problem, but the hull would remain in the chamber. Funny thing is I could reach in and extract it with my finger nail without much resistance, the hulls were already about 1/2" pulled out of the chamber. It's like the extractor has no purchase on the rim.

I burn through the rest of the box with similar results, then start back in on the remaining Federal Top Gun... no problems with the Federals. I took a quick look at the extractor claw, it seems sharp and not damaged. I have run Challenger buck shot purchased several years ago in this same gun (although with the 18.5" defender barrel) with no problems.

Anyone else running into issues? Not sure if it's 100% the ammo or the gun, or a combination... but Top Gun runs fine in it.

 

[Maritime Storm]

The SXP uses a rotary bolt setup, generally that deals with an FTE issues before it starts. I haven't seen any issues with FTE Challenger ammo before, however they do use a thin brass headed Cheddite hull, it could be your particular gun doesn't like them. Suggestion would be 2 fold, 1. make sure the chamber is smooth and clean. 2. Ask the Administrators to move this thread to the Hunting Shotgun section, you'll get more response there.