The Active Valve system.
Gas autoloaders do what recoil operated guns simply can’t — control recoil before it ever touches your shoulder. And there is no better gas system than the Active Valve found in Super X®3 shotguns. The Active Valve system consists of a gas piston with an internal valve that self adjusts to fire a wide range of loads. The gas piston (1) and valve operate independently, exerting less pressure on the piston for greater longevity and efficiency than other gas-operated autoloaders.
With light loads (2), most of the gases from the fired shell are used to operate the action. With heavy loads (3), excess gases are vented from the piston. When firing the heaviest magnum loads in 3 1/2" models a portion of the gases are also vented forward out of the Quadra-Vent™ ports in the forearm for maximum efficiency. 3" models fire everything from light, 1 oz., 2 3/4" target loads to 3" magnums, while 3 1/2" guns handle loads from 1 1/8 oz., 2 3/4" field loads up to heavy 3 1/2" magnums.
To put it simply, the Super X3 is the most reliable, fastest shooting, softest recoiling autoloader in the world. available.
Lightweight leader.
Why spec a steel magazine tube when one that weighs 3/4 of a pound less will do the same thing? That’s what we thought when we chose a high-strength alloy magazine tube for the Super X3. To ensure longevity, a brass ring has been added to withstand the effects of hot gases from the shot charge.
In addition to the lightweight magazine tube and recoil spring components, a new lightweight profile barrel with a machined rib further reduces weight. The weight reduction adds up, allowing the Super X3 swing faster than any other autoloader and reducing fatigue, mile after mile.
Easy length of pull adjustments.
Several models feature spacers that fit between the stock and recoil pad to customize your gun to your exact measurements. Two spacers are included with these Super X3 models to adjust stock length between 13 3/4" and 14 3/8" on wood stocks and 14 1/4" and 14 3/4" on composite stocks.
Fine tune cast and drop.
Selected Super X3 Composite shotguns include spacers to adjust stock drop and cast over a 1/4" range. The spacers fit between the stock and receiver to lock in your personalized dimensions, ensuring optimum eye to bead alignment.
Less is so much more.
While it was next to impossible to improve on the ergonomics of the SX2, we did it. Extensive research told us to reduce the waist diameter of the grip and the diameter of the forearm. These new dimensions not only accomodate shooters with smaller hands better, but give everyone who shoots the Super X3 a feeling of increased control. The trim new forearm is one of the slimmest available on a 12 gauge gas-operated autoloder. Pick one up, it’s a difference you’ll notice at the gun counter and appreciate in the field.
.742" Back-Bored Technology.
Extensive research and testing has proven that when it comes to back-boring, .742" is the only diameter that will ensure tight, consistent patterns. It’s simple physics. With a larger bore diameter gases can easily blow by the shot cup as it moves down the barrel and reduce pellet velocity. Too small a diameter and the pellets are deformed as they pass through the forcing cone, leading to fliers and generally poor ballistic performance. The gentle 5° taper of the forcing cone in an Super X3 barrel provides the smoothest possible transition for the shot cup from the chamber to the barrel to minimize pellet deformation.
Finishes.
Super X3 Shotguns have come in a variety of finishes over the years. Most of today's models feature either 1) a durable dipped camouflage finish on the stock and metal parts or 2) a traditional blued steel barrel and anodized receiver. In the past, some models had a special finish called Perma-Cote UT. Some special models still may have this finish on the receiver and barrel, but most don't. Historic models, no longer in production, may also list this finish. You should check a model's specifications to determine what finish a certain Super X3 has as you decide on the Super X3 you want.
Recoil absorption from the industry leader.
When we decided to spec a new pad on the Super X3, we turned to the industry leader in recoil absorption technology, the engineers at Pachmayr. And they didn’t disappoint. This ultrasoft, incredibly effcient proprietary new pad sucks up felt recoil like a dry sponge absorbs water. And unlike many pads made of a soft compound that can grab on clothing when shouldering the gun, our pad has a built in heel insert that prevents snagging when at the critical time when the gun is coming to your shoulder.
Security in all conditions.
No matter what conditions you are hunting or shooting in, the composite stock on the Super X3 is designed to provide the ultimate in hand traction. Our unique in-molded stipling adds grip where it’s needed, with no rough egdes that can lead to discomfort like those on some guns. The composite material of the stock makes clean-up easier than ever with just a little soap and water.
Simple bolt design.
Unlike some more complicated designs, the bolt in the Super X3 has only three main parts. This simple design is ultrareliable and easy to remove for routine maintainence.
Easy to clean trigger group.
There isn’t an easier to clean trigger group than that on the Super X3. This slick and simple system provides a crisp feel with minimal overtavel. The open design allows all components to be easily accessed for cleaning and lubrication without disassembly. The trigger group is held in place by two pins that can easily be pushed through the receiver for regular maintenance, or done in the field if the gun is dropped in the muck. Only one tool is needed to push out the pins, the one integrated into the bolt handle!
NEW Lightweight barrel and machined rib.
We’ve taken weight from the most unlikely of areas in the Super X3 by removing every last ounce of unneccesary weight from the barrel. The new lightweight profile barrel swings faster without giving up anything in strength, reliability or longevity. The new machined rib is designed to be lighter, stiffer and stronger than any other rib available. Two more features that contribute to the sub-7 pound weight of the Super X3.
action. With heavy loads (3), excess gases are vented from the piston. When firing the heaviest magnum loads in 3 1/2" models a portion of the gases are also vented forward out of the Quadra-Vent™ ports in the forearm for maximum efficiency. 3" models fire everything from light, 1 oz., 2 3/4" target loads to 3" magnums, while 3 1/2" guns handle loads from 1 1/8 oz., 2 3/4" field loads up to heavy 3 1/2" magnums.
