Winchester SXP and Benelli Nova are the best entry-level pump shotgun money can buy. However, there are differences in handling, stock design, cost, weight, and capacity.
Pump action shotguns might not be the best weapon you can buy on the market. However, pump actions are the way to go with its unmatched versatility if you plan to do multiple things like hunting or home defense with one weapon.
The comparison below between Winchester SXP and Benelli Nova will help you determine the differences between these two and make a decision.
Quick Comparison Table
| Specifications | Winchester SXP | Benelli Nova |
| Barrel length | 26″ and 28″ | 24″ 26″ 28″ |
| Reliability | More reliable | Decent reliability |
| Stock | More comfortable | Decent comfortability |
| Weight | 6 lbs. | 8 lbs. |
| Capacity | 5 + 1 | 4 + 1 |
| Customization | More customizable | Less customizable |
| Cost | Cheaper | Expensive |
Key Differences Between Winchester SXP And Benelli Nova
- Barrel length
The barrel length of your shotgun will affect many factors like handling, balance, and swing.
So, barre length might seem minor, but it has great significance.
Over the years, Winchester SXP and Benelli Nova came into the market with different barrel lengths.
Right now, Winchester XPS is mostly offering 26″ and 28″ barre; sizes, while the Benelli Nova is offering 24″, 26″, and 28″ barrel lengths. You can get any of these viable barrel lengths depending on your need.
Also Read: Differences Between Pnuma And Sitka Hunting Apparels.
- Reliability
Whether home protection or handling, a shotgun must operate efficiently to do the job. When a target or threat is in front of you, a jammed shotgun can be dangerous and disappointing.
While both shotguns are extremely reliable, Winchester XPS has a little upper hand with their Super X pump. Because of the inertia assistance, follow-up shots are quick and simple, making them slightly more reliable.
- Stock
The stock design plays an important role in the handling and comfortability of a shotgun. While both shotguns are extremely comfortable and primarily made with walnut, some subtle design differences put Winchester XPS ahead of Benelli Nova.
Unlike Benelli Nova, Winchester SXP has texture and ribbing on the stock, which inverse the grip significantly. So, even sweating, you’ll get the best grip possible.
- Weight
Overall weight and its distribution are super crucial for a pump shotgun.
Have you ever felt sluggish while moving from one target to another?
If the answer is yes, it’s the issue of maneuverability directly lying to the weight. The weight of a shotgun is a completely individualized call.
While Winchester SXP weighs around 6 lbs., the Benelli Nova weighs 8 lbs. You should choose the weight depending on how quickly your muscle fatigues and recoil sensitivity.
- Capacity
If we look at the shell capacity in pump shotguns, 4 + 1 is the most common configuration on the market. However, you must pick a large home and hunting applications capacity to cover your needs.
Winchester XPS has a capacity of 5 + 1; it’s one shell higher than Benelli SXP. Though you should be able to upgrade with extended capacity, the bigger base capacity of Winchester XPS will be more convenient.
- Customization
One of the main reasons why pump shotguns are so popular is the option to customize the base version and calibrate it as per your comfort. While both Winchester SXP and Benelli Nova are widely customizable, Winchester SXP has more variety in this department.
Trigger, barrel, bolt magazine, and almost any part of this shotgun are available on the aftermarket. So, regarding future upgradeability, Winchester SXP is a more suitable option.
- Cost
As I mentioned multiple times earlier, pup action weapons are great for beginners at an affordable price, so if there is an opportunity to save a few bucks, new customers will likely take that opportunity.
If we look at the price, Winchester SXP costs around $350 to $370, depending on various factors. On the other hand, a Benelli Nova starts at $449.
Which One Is Better For You?
Both Winchester SXP and Benelli Nova are excellent entry-level pump shotguns. So, it’s not an easy job to choose between these two.
Both shotguns have pros and cons. So, depending on individual priority, purchase decisions will vary. However, if we look at factors like weight, shell capacity, stock, affordability, and customization, Winchester SXP is the theoretically clear choice.
This video also explains why!
However, if you can try both handguns, your opinion can change with different hand feels.
Also Read: Differences Between Pelican Storm 1750 And iM3300 Rifle Cases.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Many people choose to pump action shotguns as their first shotgun, and for these beginners, Winchester SXP is a fantastic choice without breaking the bank. Though the shotgun is pretty basic, it has aftermarket accessories available. So, you can always upgrade the weapon.
Pump action shotguns are often used as an alternative to semi-auto shotguns. However, when it comes to matching that action of semi-auto weapons, Winchester SXP is the fastest pump action shotgun out there. The Super X pump works with inertia-assisted slide-action to pump faster.
Several pump action comes into contention when discussing the strongest pump action shotgun. Remington 870, Benelli Nova and Winchester SXP are some of the strongest pump action shotguns ever.
The last name, SXP of Winchester SXP, stands for Super X pump. Winchester is the manufacturer of some of the best pump shotguns in history, and this SPX version made it the fastest pump action shotgun in the world.
Final Words
That’s a wrap for today. I hope my comparison of Winchester SXP and Benelli Nova will give you better insight into these products and determine your best choice. As you have seen, both have pros and cons, and you must decide according to your priorities.
If you are looking for an all-purpose shotgun, especially for hunting, you can easily count on any of the shotguns above.
