Winchester built the Super X4 as an upgrade to the well-known SX3, and the notes say it is lighter, faster cycling and smoother swinging. This 12 gauge has a 28 inch ribbed barrel, a four-round capacity, a black finish and a gas piston action.

A lightweight aluminum alloy receiver brings the weight down to 7.125 pounds, which is easy to carry through a dove field or along a dike for ducks. Fiber optic sights and an adjustable choke give you a good aiming point and flexible patterns. Spend an afternoon at the range before the season so you know exactly where it shoots.

The gas-operated action soaks up recoil and cycles a wide range of loads. A 28 inch barrel is classic for upland birds, clays and general field work. In North Carolina that means doves early in the fall, ducks in winter and a day on the skeet range any time.

Keep the action clean, and keep spare chokes in your vest. It is a gun that will handle most small-game seasons and plenty of bird hunting. It ships to a North Carolina FFL dealer, where the background check is completed.