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General Discussion => General Forum => Topic started by: Fatbeard on March 03, 2015, 10:56:01 PM

Title: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Fatbeard on March 03, 2015, 10:56:01 PM
I am stuck trying to decide which one to get. The Winchester has a 24" and the Franchi has a 26". The upside to the Franchi is I could also use it to waterfowl and maybe dove hunt with. The Winchester would be turkey only. Do not really need either but I have a choice at work on which one to choose. Which do you think is the better shotgun I quess is my? I really like both
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: SKFOOTER on March 03, 2015, 11:09:04 PM
If you have the choice I'd take the SX3. :OGturkeyhead:
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Fatbeard on March 03, 2015, 11:10:09 PM
Thanks for the input
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: taylorjones20 on March 03, 2015, 11:13:59 PM
SX3 is a fantastic gun.  If it's a good enough deal you could buy a 26" barrel for a little under $400...
Title: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Nummies24 on March 04, 2015, 12:43:43 AM
Franchi. One bad  gun
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: zelmo1 on March 04, 2015, 06:38:37 AM
 :fud: SX3 Turkey is my next gun. Like you said, it will be for turkey only. But, that is why I am buying it.
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: snapper1982 on March 04, 2015, 09:16:49 AM
When I had this same choice between the same guns in 20 gauge. I chose the sx3 and absolutely love it. I can't say anything bad about the franchi but I can say the sx3 is an awesome gun.
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Tail Feathers on March 04, 2015, 04:18:11 PM
I don't hear folks talking bad about Franchi, (or Benelli) or the Winchester SX3.
But if I read it right, the SX3 is the only one that comes drilled and tapped (Universal Hunter) or with a cantilever for mounting a red dot or scope. 
I've read that you can't drill and tap the Benelli or Franchi.  Check that information if a sight or some type is important to you.

I chose the SX3 in 20 gauge.  Quite please but I've only shot it at the range and for ducks so far.
Title: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: reynolds243 on March 04, 2015, 05:09:05 PM
Do you want a gas or inertia gun? To me besides fit that's the biggest question.

I believe you can tap Franchis as I've seen a few it done to but don't know that for sure.

Another thought is aftermarket or accessories. I don't think there are any pistol grips or speedbead set ups for the Franchi which stinks.


Having said all that I am a benelli man personally so that would be my choice.


Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding"

Sent from my phone because I'm that cool
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: gsp on March 04, 2015, 07:08:57 PM
Just bought a sx3 with 26" barrel max 5 camo. I have owned lots of B guns and this one fits me great. I was going to pull the trigger on the maxus, but the forearm killed it for me. I like the solid lock up using a forearm cap.

Haven't had a chance to run some shells through it yet. With the 10"s of snow we're supposed to get, it may be a while >:( 
Just picked up a code black tube and need to pattern soon ;)
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: snapper1982 on March 04, 2015, 08:12:11 PM
Quote from: reynolds243 on March 04, 2015, 05:09:05 PM
Do you want a gas or inertia gun? To me besides fit that's the biggest question.

I believe you can tap Franchis as I've seen a few it done to but don't know that for sure.

Another thought is aftermarket or accessories. I don't think there are any pistol grips or speedbead set ups for the Franchi which stinks.


Having said all that I am a benelli man personally so that would be my choice.


Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding"

Sent from my phone because I'm that cool

There isn't an after market thumbhole or pistol grip for the sx3 either that I know of. Looked and been looking but have not found one.
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Marc on March 04, 2015, 09:43:04 PM
My priority is wing-shooting, and probably would not consider a gun with such a short barrel, and thus a single-function gun.  I have never owned either gun, but have shot both...  I know far more people with the Winchester.

Pro Franchi:

1) The inertia-type systems are generally easier to maintain, and generally more reliable (brand dependent of course).
2) Longer barrel would give you a gun that could function for other shooting activities.

Pro Winchester:

1) Gas-operated guns tend to have less recoil than inertia guns. (The SX-3 is a soft-shooting gun in my opinion)
2) Parts and accessories will likely be easier to find for the SX-3, should something go wrong.
3) Currently, the Winchester is a far more popular gun, and will likely hold more resale value should you change your mind later.
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Fatbeard on March 04, 2015, 10:10:14 PM
Looks like the Wichester is the all out leader. The operating system is not a big priority. I have picked up both guns and they both feel great. The Winchester does have the cantilever on it. Get to pick it out in May.
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: Dr Juice on March 12, 2015, 04:51:21 AM
SX3 :turkey2:
Title: Re: Winchester SX3 24" or Franchi Intesity 26"
Post by: laker on March 12, 2015, 07:55:39 AM
SX3 in Bottomland!!   :drool: