Winchester SXP Trap Compact 20 Gauge 30″ Barrel
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Winchester SXP Trap Compact 20 Gauge 30″ Barrel? It’s a purpose-built pump-action shotgun designed specifically for trap shooting with a compact 13-inch length of pull that accommodates smaller-statured shooters and youth competitors. The 30-inch back-bored barrel and Invector-Plus choke system provide consistent patterns at regulation trap distances, while the Monte Carlo stock and Inflex recoil pad manage 20-gauge recoil effectively for extended practice sessions.
What is the Winchester SXP Trap Compact 20 Gauge used for?
This shotgun is engineered exclusively for American trap shooting, particularly for shooters requiring a shorter length of pull. The 30-inch barrel maintains sight plane stability through the shot, while the back-boring reduces felt recoil by approximately 15% compared to standard 20-gauge barrels. Three included chokes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified) allow pattern tuning for 16-yard through handicap distances.
How does the Winchester SXP Trap Compact compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The SXP Trap Compact outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in recoil management and customization for smaller shooters, but loses in shot-to-shot speed. Where the Stevens 555 requires manual reloading after two shots, the SXP’s pump action allows five rounds of continuous fire—though trap regulations limit you to one shell at a time. The Stevens’ over-under action is faster between pairs but lacks the SXP’s 13-inch length of pull adjustment for youth shooters.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The SXP Trap Compact weighs 7.1 pounds unloaded and measures 49.75 inches overall with its 30-inch barrel. The 13-inch length of pull is 1.5 inches shorter than standard adult shotguns, while the Monte Carlo stock adds 0.75 inches of cheek rise for consistent eye alignment with the 28mm vent rib.
Who is this NOT for?
Do not purchase this shotgun if you require multi-discipline use or left-hand operation. The 30-inch barrel and fixed choke system make it poorly suited for skeet or sporting clays where shorter barrels and cylinder chokes are preferred. The right-hand-only stock cast and safety position cannot be reversed, unlike ambidextrous options like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
What’s in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three steel Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified), a choke tube wrench, and owner’s manual. The chokes are pre-installed with anti-seize compound and require 18 foot-pounds of torque when changing—unlike some competitors that ship dry-threaded.
Is the Winchester SXP Trap Compact worth it at $488.99?
At $488.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for dedicated trap shooters under 5’8” tall. The combination of back-bored barrel, Inflex recoil pad, and compact stock would cost over $200 to retrofit onto a standard shotgun. For youth competitors progressing beyond entry-level guns, it’s one of few factory options with proper trap geometry at this price point.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 13-inch length of pull — 1.5 inches shorter than standard adult shotguns
- Inflex recoil pad reduces perceived recoil by 15% compared to hard rubber pads
- 30-inch back-bored barrel improves pattern consistency by 8% at 40 yards
- Includes three choke tubes ($75 value if purchased separately)
Trade-offs
- Right-hand-only stock cast cannot be reversed for left-handed shooters
- Pump action requires 0.8-second cycle time between shots versus 0.3-second on over/unders
- No sling swivel studs pre-installed — requires $40 gunsmithing for field use
Key attributes
| upc | 048702017711 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 512297693 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 5- 2.75" Shells |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Modified/Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 41.4 |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front/Ivory Mid Bead |
| youth shotgun | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli Mobil chokes?
- No, it uses Winchester-specific Invector-Plus threads that are incompatible with Benelli, Beretta, or Browning choke systems. You must use Invector-Plus tubes exclusively, available from Carlson’s or Briley Manufacturing.
- Does it fit in a 50-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 49.75-inch overall length fits standard 50-inch cases with 0.25 inches clearance. For airline travel, use a 52-inch Plano All Weather case to accommodate additional padding.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana require 7 business days via FedEx Ground from our Nevada warehouse. All firearms ship within 24 hours of FFL verification receipt.
- Can I return it if the length of pull doesn't fit?
- No, firearms sales are final per ATF regulations unless defective. We recommend measuring the shooter’s ideal length of pull using a Lyman gauge before purchasing.