Benelli and Win/FN Shotguns for 3-Gun

[Race]

I've read that a lot of 3-gun competitors use Benellis (M1, M2) and that some use Win SX2s (and maybe the FN SLP).

Is the Benelli more durable than the SX2? I know the SX2 is cycles fast and being gas, seems like it would be softer shooting. Why is the Benelli used more?

I have heard that some SX2 have broken bolt handles, but don't know if they have any other problems.

Thanks for any info.

[Nick S]

The top guys use both with success. The SX2/FN is relatively new (4-5 years?) but has been rapidly gaining popularity in the sport.

Benellis are lighter and there are more aftermarket parts available however the FN is pretty much ready to go out of the box.

Shoot both and see what you like. Personally I have a M1S90 w/ 21" barrel with Hi-Viz FO, straight stock, and Nordic ext tube and clamp. It shoots everything from Wally World Valu-Packs to Reduced Recoil Slugs. I plan on having Benny Hill lighten the bolt and bevel out the lower receiver at some point but not really in a hurry.

Good luck.

[Race]

Have you heard of any problems with the SX2/FNs? Any bolt handle issues?

Thanks again.

[Cameron]

I have an SX2/FN that I have shot moderately. ZERO problems and no broken parts, I would like an extended bolt handle though...

Cameron

[subzero]

One big reason I wanted an M1S90 over an SX2 was getting a pistol grip. I haven't seen a pg stock for an SX2 and that was kind of a bummer for me. Plus I got a killer deal on my Benelli. Otherwise the SX2 has a ton going for it. I found it to be very soft shooting and it'll hold a ton of ammo with the various 3 gun gear holders attached.

[Robb Jensen]

Since summertime I've been using a FN SLP Mk1. I find this to be about the best shotgun I've ever used for competition. It's great. Mine came with a light and heavy piston. Light is marked 1.5oz or lighter and the Heavy is marked 1.5oz or heavier. Most of the time I run the Browning Gold 1-1/8oz or lighter and never shoot 'full-power' ammo. I shoot 7-1/2oz and 8s low brass and low recoil Federal 1oz reduced power TruBall slugs. The gun has run for me 100%, with now over 1000 rounds though it and 200 slugs. I'm using a 3gungear.com 8 shot side saddle (velco'd on) along with their 2 shot forearm saddle (near the chamber). I don't use the rear sight as it doesn't work with my loads I just use the fiber front and the gutter of the scope mount. I'm now using the 1 shot extension (for outlaw 3gun), bolt handle and bolt button from Nordic Components. They also make my extensions for my Magpul PMAGs so that they hold 47 rounds ! Good Stuff !

[MH64]

One big reason I wanted an M1S90 over an SX2 was getting a pistol grip. I haven't seen a pg stock for an SX2 and that was kind of a bummer for me. Plus I got a killer deal on my Benelli. Otherwise the SX2 has a ton going for it. I found it to be very soft shooting and it'll hold a ton of ammo with the various 3 gun gear holders attached.

Yeah I wish that someone made a pistol grip stock for the SLP/SX2 as well. Since no one does at this time, I made my own.


My SLP with a modified Speedfeed stock designed for the Remington 870. Oh, its the shorter 13" stock so this makes it about one inch shorter than the factory SLP stock.