BigD: Winchester specifically meant the SXP to be ergonomically as close to their SX3 semi as they could but in pump format, so the forend and stock do look very much the same. And with all the S'es and X'es it's easy to get them all confused.
MoGas: Sure, go ahead. Just make sure he knows if he intends to buy another barrel for HD, like I said, you can't use the 18" barrel that Winchester sells since the magazine ring is placed further from the receiver intended for the 5-shot Defender model. So to get an 18" barrel on the 4-shot hunting models your only option is to cut a longer barrel. Not a hard job at all. With some very basic tools and a free afternoon, it'll come out just fine. There's guides all over the web if he needs help.
MJFlores: If you're used to the 1300 then the SXP will likely suit you very well. It's really just an update of the 1300 action with the same rotary bolt design. Though keep in mind that it was redone from the ground up so most parts will not interchange from the 1300 since various little dimensions and specs will be different. But accessories are not a problem. 1300 mag extensions fit. From what I read Rem 870 stocks will fit with some minor trimming. Not sure about forends though. But really most anything that belongs on a shotgun can be found for the SXP. I think all the talk of lack of aftermarket is really overblown.
Control layout is exactly like the 1300. I read the action is a little smoother with the whole speed-pump thing working a bit better (mine will completely open the action and eject the empty shell on it's own after firing if you don't hold the forend with even the cheap 1 1/8oz Walmart target loads.) But I never tried a 1300 myself to compare side by side. I'm really fast with this thing on clays. The wood is gorgeous (Turkish walnut I think) Overall a sweet shotgun and better than the Mossbergs and Remingtons for the same price IMO.
Only improvement I think they really should have made when resurrecting the old 1300 is copy the Mossberg's shell lifter design that always stays inside the receiver and out of the way when reloading. Would have actually simplified the whole design too. But it's a small issue that is overcome with a bit of practice.
