↬ The Winchester SX3 is a popular shotgun for hunting both ducks and geese, and with the right choke tube, it can deliver consistent patterns with non-toxic shot. The SX3’s versatility allows it to function in even the most challenging environments, but it needs the right choke tube to function effectively.
The Patternmaster Code Black and Carlson’s Cremator are two of the best choke tubes for the Winchester SX3. They can deliver results of over 80% pellets inside a 30-inch circle at over 40 yards with the right ammo. Their ported design helps reduce recoil and muzzle jump, making follow up shots quicker and more accurate.
In this guide, we’ll discuss in more detail why you should consider these chokes, the features behind them, and what to expect at certain hunting distances. And remember, always pattern your shotgun to see how it performs with the ammo you plan on hunting with so adjustments can be made prior to using it in the field.

Best Chokes for the Winchester SX3
These are the three chokes that you should consider for the SX3 that can deliver tight downrange patterns and keep pellets on target for both decoying and passing shots on ducks and geese. The SX3 is compatible with the Invector Plus choke system.
1) Carlson’s Cremator Non-Ported Choke
The Carlson’s Cremator choke tube is an excellent choice for hunters who need a versatile choke that can perform well with a variety of shotshell loads. This choke tube uses a unique design that consists of multiple tapers, which work together to provide a consistent shot pattern. This makes the Cremator ideal for hunting situations where you need to be able to adjust your shooting style quickly and accurately.
The Winchester SX3 works especially well with the Carlson’s Cremator. This medium range choke tube is perfect for shots between 30-40 yards over decoys with steel shot. The non-ported Cremator works well with most wad types, shot sizes, and types of pellets. The long range (LR) Cremator has a diameter of 0.715″, which patterns similar to a modified choke. This is the BUDGET pick.
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2) Patternmaster Code Black Choke
The Patternmaster Code Black is a top-of-the-line choke tube that provides unmatched performance in long-range hunting situations. This choke tube uses a specialized constriction design that helps to control the spread of shot at longer distances. This makes it an ideal choice for waterfowl hunters who need to take shots at moving targets from a distance.
The Patternmaster Code Black choke tube fits the Winchester SX3 perfectly. This all-around choke is great for field hunts, ponds, lakes, and rivers where the range of shots varies, and you’ll be able to handle it all without having to change chokes mid hunt. The internal choke design helps prevent the wad from affecting the shot column as it exits the barrel. Expect it to pattern closer to a full choke. This is the top pick for MAX range.
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3) Carlson’s Cremator Ported Mid Range
Carlson’s ported version of the Cremator choke series is another good option for the SX3 in that it can help reduce recoil and muzzle jump, while the internal stud design works to reduce pellet deformation. This mid-range choke tube is perfect for decoying birds in tight or for quick passing shots at medium range.
Consider the ported Cremator choke if you want a slight reduction in muzzle jump and getting on targets faster for follow up shots due to directing some of the gases and pressure outwards. However, ported chokes can be louder and may throw more gun powder residue outwards, so keep that in mind.
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Why you should pick the Cremator for the Winchester SX3
- Made from high-quality stainless steel
- Specifically designed to provide superior performance
- Features a unique design that allows for tighter shot patterns and improved accuracy
- Unique wad tapering system as the shot exits the barrel
- Less fouling and improved consistency
- Black oxide finish that provides superior durability and corrosion resistance
- Improved accuracy and performance
What to look for in the Best Chokes for the Winchester SX3
The Winchester SX3 is an affordable shotgun for just about any condition. It is widely used for waterfowl, upland game, and turkeys. The dependable operating systems keeps it functioning smoothly in even the harshest conditions.
Another highlight of the Winchester SX3 shotgun is its affordability. It can be found for less than $1,000, which leaves plenty left over for aftermarket choke tubes to get that perfect pattern. The Patternmaster Code Black Choke is one of the best choke tubes for the Winchester SX3. It delivers uniform patterns that hold together at longer ranges.
Carlson’s Cremator is another choke tube that excels in long range shooting through the Winchester SX3. It’s offered in both a long range model and mid-range for up close decoy hunting. The cremator makes for an affordable choke combo that can be switch depending on the hunting situation.

Types of Chokes for the Winchester SX3
Ported vs. Non-ported chokes – Ported chokes have groves and holes that allow for pressure expansion and wad stripping technology to help create better patterns. These choke tubes can also help reduce recoil. Non-ported chokes are smoothed walled and can even be flush with the end of the barrel.
Extended vs. flush chokes – All ported chokes are extended chokes. Extended chokes usually extend 1 to 1.5 inches past the end of the barrel. This added barrel length can help improve patterns by increasing the parallel section of the choke tube and allowing space for wad technology to work.
The best chokes for hunting are always extended ported chokes like the Carlson’s Cremator. They consistently produce the best wing shooting results with the right ammo combinations.
Extended chokes are ideal for waterfowl and turkey hunting because they provide a platform for tighter constrictions and wad technology improvements beyond that of flush factory chokes.
To kill weary waterfowl or old toms at long ranges consistently, an extended ported choke is the best starting point to developing a tight pattern that will produce great results at 50 yards or more.
How It Compares
When it comes to choosing the right choke tube for the Winchester SX3 shotgun, Carlson’s Cremator stands out from its competitors. The Carlson’s Cremator is engineered with a unique design that provides consistent and even shot patterns, resulting in better accuracy and a higher precision. Unlike its competitors, the Cremator is built with Triple Shot Technology, which ensures that the shot is evenly distributed, reducing the chances of having holes or gaps in your pattern. Additionally, the Cremator’s longer parallel section helps to reduce recoil, which in turn leads to more controlled shots and better follow ups. Overall, the Carlson’s Cremator is a top performer, delivering outstanding results that set it apart from the competition.
Bottom Line
Several factory choke tubes come with the Winchester SX3, but they aren’t always the best. After market premium choke tubes are available to provide better patterning results that translate to better success in the field.
The Patternmaster Code Black and Carlson’s Cremator are two of the best choke tubes for waterfowl. These ported chokes are extended for easy removal in the field and can produce more consistent patterns over factory choke tubes.
As always, you should pattern your shotgun to see what ammo and choke combinations work the best out of it. One shotgun may not perform like another. Test it out and develop a system that will work well throughout the hunting season and give you the best chance of success when birds are hovering over your decoys.
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Last update on 2025-09-09 / Affiliate links / Product Images from Amazon Product Advertising API