FAILURE TO FOLLOW ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

As a firearm owner, you accept a set of demanding responsibilities. How seriously you take these responsibilities can be the difference between life and death.

There is no excuse for careless or abusive handling of any firearm. At all times handle this firearm and all other firearms with intense respect for their power and potential danger.

Please read and understand all of the cautions, warnings, notices, proper handling procedures and instructions outlined in this owner’s manual before using your new firearm.

1. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE OF YOUR FIREARM POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE CERTAIN IT IS UNLOADED. Never point any firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Be extremely alert and aware of all persons and property within the range of your ammunition.

2. NEVER RELY TOTALLY ON YOUR FIREARM'S MECHANICAL “SAFETY” DEVICE, LIKE ANY MECHANICAL DEVICE, A “SAFETY” CAN SOMETIMES FAIL; IT CAN BE JARRED OR INADVERTENTLY MANIPULATED INTO AN UNSAFE CONDITION. The word “safety” describes a firearm’s trigger block mechanism, sear block mechanism, hammer block mechanism or firing pin block mechanism. Mechanical “safeties” are designed to place your firearm in a safer status, and no guarantee can be made that the firearm will not fire even if the “safety” is in the on safe position. Mechanical “safeties” merely aid safe gun handling and are no excuse for pointing your firearm’s muzzle in an unsafe direction. See “Operation of the “Safety” for instructions on the operation of this firearm’s “safety.”

Remember, safe gun handling does not stop with your firearm’s mechanical “safety” devices, it starts there. Always treat this firearm with the respect due a loaded, ready-to-fire firearm.

Some firearms do not have a mechanical “safety.” Many target firearms, lever-action firearms and pistols do not have manual “safety” mechanisms. Therefore it is critical to read and understand the owner’s manual for every firearm which explains the safe operation of the firearm.

While it is a good idea to “test” your firearm’s mechanical “safety” periodically for proper function, never test the “safety” while your firearm is loaded or pointed in an unsafe direction.

3. WHENEVER YOU HANDLE ANY FIREARM, OR HAND IT TO SOMEONE, ALWAYS OPEN THE ACTION IMMEDIATELY AND VISUALLY CHECK THE FIREARM'S CHAMBER TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE FIREARM IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED.

Make certain the firearm does not inadvertently contain any ammunition. Always keep the chamber empty and the “safety” in the on safe position unless shooting is imminent.

4. ALWAYS WEAR EAR AND EYE PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING. Unprotected, repeated exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear hearing protection (shooting ear plugs or muffs) to guard against such damage.

Wear shooting glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Allow proper distance (eye relief) between a scope and your eye when firing a scoped pistol, rifle or shotgun. Do not use unorthodox shooting methods that could cause the rearward travel of the slide or bolt of a firearm to contact your eyes, face or hands. Always keep a safe distance between the muzzle of your firearm and any persons nearby, as muzzle blast, debris and ejecting cartridges could inflict serious injury.

Always wear eye protection when disassembling and cleaning any firearm to prevent the possibility of springs, spring-tensioned parts, solvents or other agents from contacting your eyes.

5. KEEP ALL FIREARMS UNLOADED DURING TRANSPORT, EVEN WHEN STORED IN A HOLSTER, GUN CASE, SCABBARD OR OTHER CONTAINER.

6. DROPPING OR JARRING A LOADED FIREARM CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE. This can occur even with the “safety” in the on safe position. Be extremely careful while hunting or during any shooting activity to avoid dropping any firearm.

7. HUNTING FROM ELEVATED SURFACES SUCH AS TREESTANDS IS DANGEROUS. Doing so may increase the risk of mishandling a firearm. The following rules should always be observed by you and those you hunt with. Always make certain that the stand being used is safe and stable. Always make certain that your firearm is unloaded when it is being taken up and down from the stand. Always make certain that your firearm is not dropped from the stand, or dropped while it is being taken up or down from the stand. Remember, a loaded firearm may discharge when dropped, even with the “safety” in the on safe position.

8. STORE YOUR FIREARM AND AMMUNITION SEPARATELY, WELL BEYOND THE REACH OF CHILDREN. Take prudent safeguards to ensure your firearm does not become available to untrained, inexperienced or unwelcome hands. Store all firearms in secure, locked cases or a gun safe. Keep your firearm unloaded when not in use.

9. BEWARE OF BARREL OBSTRUCTIONS. Mud, snow and an infinite variety of other objects may inadvertently lodge in a barrel bore. It only takes a small obstruction to cause dangerously increased pressures that can damage your firearm and cause serious injury to yourself and others.

BEFORE CHECKING FOR A BARREL OBSTRUCTION, BE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED, THERE IS NOT A LIVE CARTRIDGE IN THE CHAMBER AND THE “SAFETY” IS IN THE ON SAFE POSITION.

After assuring yourself that the firearm is completely unloaded, open the breech or action and look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of obstructions. If an obstruction is seen, no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch as described in this owner’s manual.

10. BE ALERT TO THE SIGNS OF AMMUNITION MALFUNCTION. IF YOU DETECT AN OFF SOUND OR LIGHT RECOIL WHEN A CARTRIDGE IS FIRED, DO NOT LOAD ANOTHER CARTRIDGE INTO THE CHAMBER. If your firearm fails to fire, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction for a minimum of 30 seconds. Carefully open the action and remove the cartridge from the chamber. If the primer is indented, the defective cartridge should be disposed of in a way that cannot cause harm. If the primer is not indented, your firearm should be examined by a qualified gunsmith and the cause of the malfunction corrected before further use. Glance down the barrel to make sure that no obstructions remain in the barrel. Completely clear the barrel before loading and firing again. Failure to follow these instructions can cause extensive damage to your firearm and possible serious injury to yourself and others.

11. NEVER INSERT A CARTRIDGE OF THE INCORRECT CALIBER INTO ANY FIREARM. The caliber of your firearm is marked on the barrel. Store all cartridges of different calibers in completely separate and well-marked containers. Never store cartridges of mixed calibers in a common container or in your pockets. See the ammunition section for more information on the correct ammunition for your firearm.

12. EXAMINE EVERY CARTRIDGE YOU PUT IN YOUR FIREARM. We assume no responsibility for the use of unsafe or improper firearm and ammunition combinations or damage or injury caused by damaged ammunition. It is your responsibility to read and heed all warnings in this owner’s manual and on ammunition boxes. See page 11 for more information on the correct ammunition for your firearm.

13. USE ONLY SAAMI APPROVED AMMUNITION. The barrel and action of this firearm have been made with substantial safety margins beyond the pressures developed by established American commercial loads. Nevertheless, we can assume no liability for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimensions or which develop pressures in excess of commercially available ammunition which has been loaded in accordance with standards established by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI).

14. MAKE SURE OF ADEQUATE VENTILATION IN THE AREA THAT YOU DISCHARGE A FIREARM. LEAD EXPOSURE CAN OCCUR FROM DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS OR HANDLING AMMUNITION. Lead is a substance that has been known to cause birth defects, reproductive harm and other serious injury. Wash hands thoroughly after exposure to ammunition or after cleaning a firearm.

15. DO NOT SNAP THE FIRING PIN ON AN EMPTY CHAMBER; THE CHAMBER MAY NOT BE EMPTY! Treat every firearm with the respect due a loaded firearm, even though you are certain the firearm is unloaded.

16. KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER WHILE LOADING AND UNLOADING UNTIL SHOOTING IS IMMINENT.

17. BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BACKSTOP, PARTICULARLY DURING LOW LIGHT PERIODS. Know the range of your ammunition. Never shoot at water or hard objects.

18. ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR FIREARM’S CHAMBER BEFORE CROSSING A FENCE, CLIMBING A TREE, JUMPING A DITCH OR NEGOTIATING OTHER OBSTACLES. Never place your firearm on or against a fence, tree, car or other similar object.

19. BE DEFENSIVE AND ON GUARD AGAINST UNSAFE GUN HANDLING AROUND YOU AND OTHERS. Don’t be timid when it comes to firearm safety. If you observe other shooters violating any of these safety precautions, politely suggest safer handling practices.

20. BE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS UNLOADED BEFORE CLEANING. Because so many firearm accidents occur when a firearm is being cleaned, special and extreme care should be taken to be sure your firearm is unloaded before disassembly, cleaning and reassembly.

Keep ammunition away from the cleaning location. Never test the mechanical function of any firearm with live ammunition.

21. TEACH AND SUPERVISE FIREARMS SAFETY TO ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY, ESPECIALLY TO CHILDREN AND NON-SHOOTERS. Closely supervise newcomers to the shooting sports. Encourage enrollment in hunting and shooting safety courses.

22. NEVER DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR TAKE ANY TYPE OF DRUGS BEFORE OR DURING SHOOTING. Your vision, motor skills and judgment could be dangerously impaired, making your gun handling unsafe to you and to others.

23. READ AND HEED ALL WARNINGS IN THIS OWNER’S MANUAL, ON AMMUNITION BOXES AND WITH ALL ACCESSORIES THAT YOU INSTALL ON YOUR FIREARM. It is your responsibility to secure the most up-to-date information on the safe handling procedures of your Winchester firearm. We assume no liability for incidents which occur when unsafe or improper firearm accessories or ammunition combinations are used.

24. PRACTICE PERIODIC MAINTENANCE, AVOID UNAUTHORIZED SERVICING. Your firearm is a mechanical device which will not last forever, and as such, is subject to wear and requires periodic inspection, adjustment and service. Winchester firearms should be serviced by a Winchester Repeating Arms Authorized Repair Center or by our Service Facility in Arnold, Missouri. We assume no responsibility for injuries suffered or caused by unauthorized servicing, alterations or modifications of Winchester firearms.

25. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE ON FIREARMS THAT HAVE BEEN ALTERED, ADDED TO OR SUBSTANTIALLY CHANGED. Removal of metal from the barrel, or modifications of the firing mechanism and/or operating parts, may lead to a refusal of service on such firearms. We will charge you for parts and labor to return the firearm to original specifications. DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ALTER THE TRIGGER, “SAFETY” OR OTHER PARTS OF THE FIRING MECHANISM OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM. FAILURE TO OBEY THIS WARNING MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS.

DESCRIPTION

The Winchester ® SX-AR is a gas-operated, semi-automatic repeating rifle. The origins of the SX-AR can be traced back to John M. Browning’s BAR, a rifle that served with distinction through both World Wars, the Korean War and other conflicts. The ergonomically-designed pistol grip stock features comfortable dimensions to accommodate most shooting styles.

OPERATION

When the trigger is pulled, the firing pin strikes the primer of the cartridge, resulting in the rifle firing. Gas from the fired cartridge travels down the barrel and some is diverted into the gas piston which then sends the inertia block rearward to operate the bolt. During the rearward movement of the bolt, the empty cartridge case is ejected out of the ejection port. If there is a cartridge in the magazine, the bolt then returns forward by the force of the recoil spring, picks up a cartridge from the magazine and loads it into the chamber, ready to be fired. If there is not a cartridge in the magazine during this movement, the bolt lock engages and the bolt remains open.

With cartridges in the magazine and chamber, and the “safety” in the off safe position, the rifle will fire a single round with each successive pull of the trigger until the magazine and chamber are empty. When the last round has been fired, the bolt will lock in the rearmost, open position. This allows fast, convenient reloading.

NOMENCLATURE

In conventional firearm terminology the position and movement of firearm parts are described as they occur with the firearm horizontal and in the normal firing position: i.e., the muzzle is forward or in front; the buttstock is rearward or to the rear; the trigger is downward or underneath; the rib is upward or on top. For general parts nomenclature, refer to Figure 1. Figure 2 covers the general features and benefits of the SX-AR design. Throughout this owner’s manual the “action” refers to the mechanism of this rifle which loads and secures the cartridges in the chamber.

SERIAL NUMBER

The serial number is located on the left side of the receiver, just above the trigger. Record the serial number at the front of this owner’s manual for future reference.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING-LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

Various exposed metal parts of this rifle have been coated at the factory with a rust preventative compound. Before using the rifle, clean the anti-rust compound from the inside of the barrel, receiver, bolt and the action/chamber areas with a high-quality, lightweight gun oil as explained in the cleaning section.

If your rifle is to be stored, it is acceptable to leave the rust preventative compound on the rifle and keep it in its original packaging. Never fire the rifle upon purchase without cleaning it first. If the rifle contains hardened grease or other substances that you cannot remove, have the rifle checked by your dealer or a qualified gunsmith.

ALWAYS KEEP THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION UNLESS SHOOTING IS IMMINENT. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

The SX-AR rifle utilizes a “safety” located on the trigger guard just rearward of the trigger. (Figure 3). This location is easily manipulated with the index finger of either hand. With the “safety” pushed completely to the right, the rifle is in the “on safe” position, and rearward movement of the trigger is completely blocked.

With the “safety” pushed completely to the left the rifle is off safe and ready to fire. In the off safe position a band of red is visible on the “safety” where it projects beyond the left face of the trigger guard (Figure 4).

DO NOT DEPEND ON THE RED COLOR ALONE TO INDICATE YOUR FIREARM’S SAFETY STATUS. TIME, EXPOSURE TO THE ELEMENTS, AND THE ABRASIVE ACTION OF CLEANING AGENTS CAN ERASE IT. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

To accommodate left-handed shooters the “safety” can be reversed from right- to left-handed by a qualified gunsmith. When installed, the left-handed “safety” will have the “safety” button’s red warning band on the right side of the trigger guard.

THE “SAFETY” MAY HAVE BEEN REVERSED FOR A LEFT-HANDED SHOOTER. PLEASE TAKE TIME TO INSPECT YOUR RIFLE’S “SAFETY” FOR THE POSITIONING MENTIONED ABOVE. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WHEN USING THE BOLT LOCK ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER. UNLESS SHOOTING IS IMMINENT, ALWAYS REMOVE THE MAGAZINE FROM THE RIFLE BEFORE CLOSING THE BOLT TO PREVENT INADVERTENTLY LOADING A CARTRIDGE FROM THE MAGAZINE INTO THE CHAMBER.

MAKE SURE YOUR FINGERS ARE SAFELY AWAY FROM THE EJECTION PORT AT ALL TIMES WHEN THE BOLT IS LOCKED OPEN AND WHEN THE BOLT IS RELEASED TO AVOID PINCHING THEM WHEN THE BOLT CLOSES.

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

The bolt lock is located on the right side of the receiver, just to the rear of the forearm (Figure 5). It automatically engages after the last cartridge in the magazine has been fired and locks the bolt to the rearmost, open position.

The bolt lock can also be used to lock the bolt in the rearward position when the magazine is removed. To lock the bolt in the open or rear position, pull the operating handle all the way to the rear and press upward on the bolt lock.

To release the bolt when no magazine is in the rifle and the bolt is locked rearward, pull the operating handle to the rear to disengage the bolt lock and release the handle. This will allow the bolt to return to the forward position.

DO NOT USE AMMUNITION OTHER THAN WHAT IS INSCRIBED ON THE SIDE OF THE BARREL. EXAMINE EVERY CARTRIDGE YOU PUT IN YOUR FIREARM.

DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS OR HANDLING AMMUNITION MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD AND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TO CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM AND OTHER SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION AT ALL TIMES. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER HANDLING AMMUNITION.

The barrel and action of this rifle have been made with substantial safety margins over the pressures developed by established American loads. However, we assume no responsibility for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimension or those developing pressures in excess of SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute) established standards.

The SX-AR magazine is unique for the rifle and should not be used in other rifles. No other magazine type should be used in your rifle. The specialized design makes the magazine highly reliable and easy to maintain.

SX-AR rifles include one magazine capable of holding 10 cartridges. A 20 cartridge capacity magazine is available from your Winchester Repeating Arms dealer. Make sure you have verified the capacity of your magazine before loading it in your rifle.

WHEN LOADING YOUR RIFLE ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION, ALWAYS PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION AND KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

DO NOT CARRY YOUR RIFLE WITH A CARTRIDGE IN THE CHAMBER TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE. WHEN FIRING IS NO LONGER IMMINENT, PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION AND UNLOAD THE CHAMBER. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

DO NOT INSERT A LOADED MAGAZINE INTO THE RIFLE, NOR LOAD A CARTRIDGE INTO THE CHAMBER, UNLESS SHOOTING IS IMMINENT.

1. Place the “safety” in the on safe position.

2. Press the ambidextrous magazine release located to the rear of the magazine block (Figure 6). Remove the magazine with your free hand.

3. Pull the bolt completely rearward and inspect the chamber to make sure it is empty. Return the bolt to the forward, closed position.

4. Load the cartridges into the magazine by placing a cartridge on the top of the retaining lips and, with your thumb, pushing it straight down against the force of the follower spring until it locks into position under the retaining lips (Figure 7). Continue to load the magazine in this manner.

Care should be exercised in positioning each cartridge so that its base is flush with the rear of the magazine. If the nose of a cartridge protrudes beyond the front of the magazine, it could cause feeding problems or interfere with the insertion of the magazine into the rifle.

5. After loading the magazine, insert the magazine into the magazine block of the rifle until it locks in place.

WHEN LOADING YOUR RIFLE ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION. KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

1. Make sure the “safety” is in the on safe position and the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.

2. Lock the bolt in the open or rear position by pulling the operating handle all the way to the rear and pressing upward on the bolt release lever.

3. Insert the loaded magazine into the magazine block until it locks in place.

4. If shooting is imminent, a cartridge can now be moved from the magazine to the chamber by pulling back fully on the operating handle and releasing it, allowing the bolt to slam closed from the open position. If the bolt is not allowed to close in this manner, there is a possibility that it will not close completely, preventing the rifle from firing.

THE RIFLE IS NOW READY TO FIRE BY MOVING THE “SAFETY” TO THE OFF SAFE POSITION AND PULLING THE TRIGGER.

Verify the bolt is closed completely, make sure the operating handle is in front of the red bolt forward indicator dot located on the receiver near the ejection port (Figure 8). You should first practice this technique with an empty chamber.

NEVER CHAMBER A CARTRIDGE OR MOVE THE “SAFETY” FROM THE ON SAFE POSITION UNLESS SHOOTING IS IMMINENT. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

1. Make sure the “safety” is in the on safe position and the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.

2. Load a cartridge into the chamber as explained previously. With a cartridge in the chamber, you need only to move the “safety” to the off safe position to make the rifle ready for firing. Do not move the “safety” to the off safe position unless shooting is imminent.

THE RIFLE IS NOW READY TO FIRE BY MOVING THE “SAFETY” TO THE OFF SAFE POSITION AND PULLING THE TRIGGER.

3. When ready to fire, move the “safety” into the off safe position, take aim and squeeze the trigger.

4. After a cartridge has fired, the bolt automatically moves rearward, ejects the empty case, then returns forward, chambering a cartridge from the magazine. Because fired cases are ejected to the right side, bystanders should not stand to the right of the shooter.

5. This operation is repeated each time you pull the trigger until the last cartridge from the magazine has been fired. If shooting is no longer imminent, immediately place the “safety” in the on safe position. See “Unloading” on page 15 for more information.

6. After the last cartridge is fired, the bolt will lock in the rearward position. If you wish to continue shooting, you can reload the rifle as described previously. After reloading the magazine, if shooting is imminent, you can chamber a cartridge and resume firing by pulling the operating handle fully rearward and releasing it.

If your rifle is to be put away and stored, do not reload the rifle or magazine. The chamber and magazine must remain empty when storing your rifle

AFTER FIRING, OR WHEN SHOOTING IS NO LONGER IMMINENT, IMMEDIATELY PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

EVEN WITH THE BOLT OPEN AFTER SHOOTING, DO NOT ASSUME THE RIFLE IS UNLOADED. ALWAYS INSPECT THE CHAMBER, FEED MECHANISM AND MAGAZINE TO BE CERTAIN THE RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WHEN UNLOADING YOUR RIFLE ALWAYS PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER. AFTER REMOVING THE MAGAZINE, ALWAYS INSPECT THE CHAMBER AND BARREL CAREFULLY TO BE SURE ALL LIVE CARTRIDGES ARE CLEARED FROM THE FIREARM. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

1. Make sure the “safety” is in the on safe position and the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.

2. Press the ambidextrous magazine release and remove the magazine.

3. Pull rearward on the operating handle to draw the bolt to its rearmost, open position. This will extract and eject any live cartridge that may be in the chamber. Please note that the bolt will not automatically lock in the rearward position when the magazine is removed or when the magazine is loaded. As a good safety practice, hold the bolt open and visually inspect the chamber to be absolutely certain a live cartridge is not present.

4. With the magazine removed and the chamber empty, close the bolt.

Unload the magazine by pushing the cartridges, one at a time, forward and out of the magazine.

BEFORE MOUNTING A SCOPE, SIGHT OR OTHER ACCESSORIES ON YOUR RIFLE, PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION. REMOVE THE MAGAZINE, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

The SX-AR is fitted with MIL-STD 1913-pattern mounting rails on top of the receiver to attach optics. When installing accessories, follow the manufacturers' mounting instructions.

BEFORE PERFORMING STOCK ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES, PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION. REMOVE THE MAGAZINE, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

The SX-AR includes three recoil pads of different lengths, three combs of different heights and six shims to fine-tune cast and drop (shim 2 is on the rifle from the factory). These accessories allow the stock to be adjusted to fit your style of shooting.

Three recoil pads have been included with your rifle to allow precise length of pull adjustments (Figure 9). The short recoil pad is 1⁄2" thick, the medium recoil pad is 3 ⁄4" thick and the long recoil pad is 1" thick. The medium recoil pad is installed on the rifle from the factory. To install a recoil pad perform the following operation:

1. Make sure your rifle is completely unloaded and the “safety” is in the on safe position.

2. Use a #2 cross tip or Phillips screwdriver to remove the recoil pad at the end of the buttstock (Figure 10). Place a small amount of petroleum jelly on the screw access slits on the top and bottom of the rear of the buttstock to prevent damaging the recoil pad. Insert the screwdriver into each of the two access holes. Make certain the tip of the screwdriver engages the head of the screw. Turn the screw counterclockwise until the screw is completely loose from the stock. When both screws are free, remove the recoil pad and recoil pad base.

3. Install the new recoil pad to fit the rifle to your specifications. After making an adjustment hold the rifle to your shoulder to determine if the new length feels comfortable. Remember, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, the “safety” in the on safe position and make certain the rifle is completely unloaded.

4. When you are satisfied with the length of pull, start the screws through the pad and recoil pad base into the holes in the stock.

5. Attach the recoil pad to the stock using the screwdriver. Turn the screws clockwise to tighten. Do not overtighten the screws. Clean the petroleum jelly from the recoil pad.

Three combs have been included with your rifle to allow precise height adjustments for correct eye-to-optics alignment (Figure 11). Three combs are included with the SX-AR, with 8mm height differences between each comb. Comb #1 is the lowest comb, #2 is the middle height and #3 is the tallest comb. The #2 comb is installed on the rifle from the factory. To install a comb perform the following operation:

1. Make sure your rifle is completely unloaded and the “safety” is in the on safe position.

2. Use a #2 cross tip or Phillips screwdriver to remove the comb (Figure 12). Place a small amount of petroleum jelly on the screw access slits on the front and rear of the comb to prevent damaging the comb. Insert the screwdriver into each of the two access holes. Make certain the tip of the screwdriver engages the head of the screw.

Turn the screw counterclockwise until the screw is completely loose from the stock. When both screws are free, remove the comb.

3. Install the new comb to fit the rifle to your specifications. After making an adjustment hold the rifle to your shoulder to determine if the new comb comfortably provides correct eye-to-optics alignment. Remember, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, the safety in the “on safe” position and make certain the rifle is completely unloaded.

4. When you are satisfied with the comb height, start the screws through the pad and spacer(s) into the holes in the stock.

5. Attach the comb to the stock using the screwdriver. Turn the screws clockwise to tighten. Do not overtighten the screws. Clean the petroleum jelly from the recoil pad.

Six shims are included with your SX-AR (Figure 13). The shims fit between the stock and receiver, allowing customized adjustments to the comb and heel. Each shim is labeled/stamped for a specific amount of adjustment. The neutral shim, No. 2, is already installed on your rifle.

Drop at comb is defined as the place on the comb that your cheek rests when taking aim. If drop at comb is correct, your eye naturally falls in line with the sight. Shims marked 1, 2 and 3 do not give any cast on or off. The stock remains straight. They only adjust drop at comb.

These shims with their respective stamps are further clarified here:

• Shim 1 raises the comb approximately 1/16", and the heel approximately 1/8".
• Shim 2 is neutral. This shim is already installed on the rifle.
• Shim 3 lowers the comb approximately 1/16", and the heel approximately 1/8".

Cast is the offset of the buttstock from the longitudinal center line of the firearm. Some right-handed shooters like the stock to angle away (cast off) from their face, making their line of sight more directly in line with the barrel. Angling the stock to the left for left-handed shooters is “cast on.” Shims marked 1R1L, 2R2L and 3R3L, will all adjust drop at comb the same amount as shims 1, 2 and 3, and will also adjust the cast right or left approximately 1/8". You will notice that the two opposing edges of these spacers are different in thickness. For right- handed shooters, install shims between the receiver and the stock with the R facing the end of the buttstock, so its thicker side is on the left side. This casts the stock slightly to the right, away from the face of a right-handed shooter. If you turn the shim around so the L is facing the end of the buttstock it will cast the stock to the left. These shims with their respective stamps are further clarified below:

• Shim 1R1L raises the comb approximately 1/16", and the heel approximately 1/8" and will adjust the cast on or cast off approximately 1/8".
• Shim 2R2L adds the same amount of cast to the stock as shim 1R1L with neutral drop like shim 2.
• Shim 3R3L adds the same amount of cast to the stock as shims 1R1L and 2R2L, and lowers the comb approximately 1/16" and the heel approximately 1/8".

1. Make sure your rifle is completely unloaded and the “safety” is in the on safe position.

2. Use a #2 cross tip or Phillips screwdriver to remove the recoil pad at the end of the buttstock. Place a small amount of petroleum jelly on the screw access slits on the top and bottom of the rear of the buttstock to prevent damaging the recoil pad. Insert the screwdriver into each of the two access holes. Make certain the tip of the screwdriver engages the head of the screw. Turn the screw counterclockwise until the screw is completely loose from the stock. When both screws are free, remove the recoil pad.

3. Using a long, standard blade screwdriver, turn the stock attachment screw counterclockwise (Figure 14).

4. Completely remove the buttstock from the receiver, along with the existing shim, and install the shim you have selected (Figure 15). Make certain you have the proper shim installed and in the proper position before reattaching the buttstock and recoil pad.

5. When you are satisfied with the fit, reattach the buttstock to the receiver with the attachment screw, do not overtighten.

6. Attach the recoil pad with care, so as not to scratch or mar the finish of the stock. Clean the petroleum jelly from the recoil pad.

BEFORE PERFORMING CLEANING PROCEDURES, PLACE THE “SAFETY” IN THE ON SAFE POSITION. REMOVE THE MAGAZINE, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN DISASSEMBLING AND CLEANING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING- LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

KEEP ALL AMMUNITION AWAY FROM THE CLEANING AREA. NEVER TEST THE MECHANICAL FUNCTION OF YOUR RIFLE WITH LIVE AMMUNITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Your SX-AR will function better and more reliably over a longer period of time if it is properly maintained and kept clean. Clean your firearm after every day of shooting, and more often if it becomes excessively dirty. A minimum cleaning includes wiping down the firearm and oiling key parts. Regular maintenance will also include cleaning the barrel.

If you encounter a function problem be sure to give your firearm a thorough cleaning to see if it solves the problem before seeking the services of a Winchester Repeating Arms Authorized Service Center or our Service Facility in Arnold, Missouri, or a qualified gunsmith.

1. Pull the bolt fully rearward with the operating handle and lift the bolt lock upward to lock the bolt in the open position.

2. Inspect the chamber and bore for powder fouling. A normal amount of powder residue can be expected and is not serious. It can usually be removed with a patch saturated with nitro solvent.

Clean the bore using an appropriate rifle cleaning rod with a tip and patch of the correct caliber to provide a snug fit in the bore. Insert the rod and patch into the barrel at the muzzle end and run it back and forth several times. Care should be exercised to ensure that neither the cleaning rod nor the handle strikes the crown of the muzzle, as damage to this area can adversely affect the accuracy of the rifle. A muzzle protector can be purchased separately from your local firearms dealer to help protect the muzzle crown while cleaning the barrel of your rifle.

If, or when, fouling should become heavy, it can be removed with a brass bore brush. Dip or spray the brush with nitro solvent and scrub the chamber and bore until the fouling is removed. To prevent brass bristles from breaking off, the brush should be pushed completely through the barrel before being withdrawn.

To maintain the utmost accuracy of your rifle it is recommended you clean the bore with a copper solvent. Modern bullet jackets are made mainly of copper. Residues from copper bullet jackets stick to the barrel and require more frequent cleaning. Swab the bore of your rifle with a good copper solvent using the manufacturer’s recommended procedure.

3. After all fouling has been removed, the chamber and bore should be wiped dry. When the bore is dry, pass a slightly oiled patch through it for preservation. A fine, light gun oil is recommended.

4. Inspect the barrel and chamber to be certain no patches have inadvertently been left in them. Remove any that remain.

5. Use a small brush or rag to remove dirt and foreign matter from inside the receiver and other parts of the action. Lightly lubricate all moving parts with a high- quality, light gun oil. Use oil sparingly, a very light film is sufficient. A fine, light gun oil is ideally suited for this purpose.

6. Wipe all exposed metal surfaces with a lightly oiled cloth making certain that all finger marks are removed. Finger marks provide a place where moisture can accumulate. The metal of the firearm should receive a light film of oil any time the rifle has been exposed to weather or handling.

The trigger mechanism has been adjusted at the factory to provide a short, crisp pull consistent with safety and reliability. The trigger is a single-stage design with the weight of pull holding closely to four pounds. It is recommended that no attempt be made to change the weight of pull of the trigger.

This procedure should rarely, if ever, need to be performed. However, if the receiver area of your rifle should become excessively dirty or submerged in water it may be helpful to remove the trigger group and expose the inner cavity of the receiver for cleaning.

NOTICE! DO NOT ALTER OR ATTEMPT TO DISASSEMBLE ANY PART OF THE TRIGGER GROUP OR REMOVE OR DISASSEMBLE THE BOLT MECHANISM.

If any service of the trigger group or bolt becomes necessary, contact a Winchester Repeating Arms Authorized Service Center or our Service Facility in Arnold, Missouri, or a qualified gunsmith.

1. Be certain the rifle is completely unloaded and the “safety” is in the on safe position.

2. Release the bolt to its forward position.

3. Push in the two trigger group pins from either the right or left side of the receiver. Use a drive punch or similar object, using care not to scratch the firearm’s receiver (Figure 16). Push the trigger group pins clear through the receiver and remove them.

4. Grasp the trigger guard and pull the trigger assembly out of the receiver (Figure 17).

5. Perform any cleaning of the parts and receiver cavity as necessary. We suggest cleaning the trigger group with a quality aerosol gun solvent. Allow it to dry and then very lightly oil the moving parts. NOTICE! DO NOT DISASSEMBLE THE TRIGGER GROUP BEYOND THIS POINT. THIS IS A SPECIALIZED, FINELY FITTED MECHANISM; ANY ATTEMPT TO DISASSEMBLE THE INNER MECHANISM MAY DAMAGE IT FOR LIFE.

1. Before reinstalling the trigger group, make sure that the bolt is fully forward and engaged in the locked position.

2. Visually check the “safety” on the trigger guard to make certain it is still in the on safe position.

3. Insert the trigger group back into the receiver, lining up the holes in the trigger group with the holes on each side of the receiver.

4. Insert the trigger group pins from either side of the receiver and gently tap them into place using care not to scratch the receiver.

Your firearm is now fully assembled. Immediately confirm that the “safety” is in the on safe position. Take time to wipe down and clean all external surfaces as explained under “Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions”,

NOTICE! DO NOT TAKE YOUR FIREARM’S ACTION APART BEYOND WHAT IS EXPLAINED IN THIS OWNER’S MANUAL. THIS IS A SPECIALIZED, FINELY FITTED MECHANISM; ANY ATTEMPT TO DISASSEMBLE THE INNER MECHANISM MAY DAMAGE IT. IT IS UNNECESSARY, AND MAY DO DAMAGE TO THE INNER MECHANISM TO DISASSEMBLE IT FOR ROUTINE CLEANING AND OILING. OF COURSE, MISFORTUNES (SUCH AS DROPPING YOUR FIREARM IN WATER) REQUIRE APPROPRIATE ATTENTION, AND IN SUCH CIRCUMSTANCES WE RECOMMEND YOU IMMEDIATELY TAKE YOUR FIREARM TO A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN DISASSEMBLING AND CLEANING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING- LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

We do not recommend disassembling the magazine. Frequently inspect magazines to determine the need for cleaning as lubricant and dirt will gradually collect in the mechanism.

NOTICE! DO NOT TAMPER WITH THE ASSEMBLY PIN ON THE BOTTOM OF THE MAGAZINE. DOING SO WILL RENDER THE MAGAZINE INOPERATIVE.

1. Clean the magazine by spraying it with a gun cleaning solvent that will not adversely affect the polymer magazine follower or corrode the metal components. Spray the magazine with this solvent, both inside and out, to loosen debris.

2. Drain the solvent and residue from inside the magazine.

3. Use compressed air to dry the magazine, or allow it to air dry, and lightly oil.

If your Winchester rifle or shotgun should ever need service or repair, it is often best to utilize one of our Authorized Repair Centers. In some cases it is appropriate to use the Winchester Rifles and Shotguns Service Center in Arnold, Missouri. A list of Authorized Repair Centers was included with your new firearm. If you need a new listing, contact us. We can help you determine the best place to service your firearm.

In order to avoid delays, it is important to never send your firearm directly to our facility without direct authorization from one of our service specialists. This avoids possible delays in obtaining service. Contact us at (800) 322-4626 for details on how to receive service before sending your firearm.

Parts listings, Authorized Repair Center lists, service procedures, service/repair form and general product information are also found on the Web at: www.winchesterguns.com.

When returning your firearm for servicing, you must do the following:

1. Be sure it is completely unloaded.

2. Remove the scope or other optics.

3. Package it securely in a cardboard container.

4. When sending your firearm, enclose the service/repair form available at www.winchesterguns.com or a letter that clearly describes the trouble experienced, the ammunition used and the repairs desired. Also include your name and a daytime phone number where you can be reached.

5. If convenient, send a copy of the service/repair form or letter to us separately.

6. Never return ammunition with your firearm. It is against postal and most commerce regulations.

WARNING: PARTS ARE MADE FOR WINCHESTER BRAND FIREARMS MANUFACTURED BY OR FOR WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS, AND SHOULD NOT BE USED IN OTHER FIREARMS, EVEN THOUGH MODELS MAY BE SIMILAR. IMPROPERLY FITTED PARTS MAY BE DANGEROUS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING MAY CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR FIREARM.

An information resource for Winchester Repeating Arms can be found online at winchesterguns.com. 

• List of Authorized Repair Centers.
• Customer Service information.
• Firearm Service/Repair Form.
• Answers to many technical and historical questions.
• Links to helpful sites.

CERTAIN STATES REQUIRE, BY LAW, THAT THEIR OWN SPECIFIED WARNING NOTICES BE INCLUDED BY THE MANUFACTURER, DISTRIBUTOR, OR RETAIL DEALER WITH FIREARMS SOLD IN THAT STATE. WINCHESTER SELLS ITS PRODUCTS IN COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS. BECAUSE OUR PRODUCTS MAY BE SOLD IN THESE STATES, WE INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

CALIFORNIA

Firearms must be handled responsibly and securely stored to prevent access by children and other unauthorized users. California has strict laws pertaining to firearms, and you may be fined or imprisoned if you fail to comply with them. Visit the Website of the California Attorney General at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms for information on firearm laws applicable to you and how you can comply.

Prevent child access by always keeping guns locked away and unloaded when not in use. If you keep a loaded firearm where a child obtains and improperly uses it, you may be fined or sent to prison.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Las armas de fuego deben de ser manipuladas responsablemente y almacenadas en sitios seguros para prevenir el acceso a ellas por parte de niños y personas sin autorización. California cuenta con leyes estrictas sobre las armas de fuego, y puede ser multado y encarcelado si no las obedece. Visite la página web de California Attorney General, https://oag.ca.gov/firearms para más información sobre cómo cumplir con las leyes de armas de fuego. 

Prevenga el acceso de los niños a las armas de fuego manteniéndolas siempre en un lugar seguro, bajo llave y descargadas cuando no estén en uso. Si usted deja un arma cargada al alcance de un niño, y éste la utiliza indebidamente,usted podría ser multado e incluso enviado a la cárcel.

Si usted o alguien que conoce está pensando en suicidarse, llame a la línea Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio al 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

CONNECTICUT

“UNLAWFUL STORAGE OF A LOADED FIREARM MAY RESULT IN IMPRISONMENT OR FINE.”

FLORIDA

“IT IS UNLAWFUL, AND PUNISHABLE BY IMPRISONMENT AND FINE, FOR ANY ADULT TO STORE OR LEAVE A FIREARM IN ANY PLACE WITHIN THE REACH OR EASY ACCESS OF A MINOR UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE OR TO KNOWINGLY SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OR POSSESSION OF A FIREARM TO A MINOR OR A PERSON OF UNSOUND MIND.”

MAINE

“ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD IS A CRIME. IF YOU LEAVE A FIREARM AND AMMUNITION WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF A CHILD, YOU MAY BE SUBJECT TO FINE, IMPRISONMENT OR BOTH. KEEP FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION SEPARATE. KEEP FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION LOCKED UP. USE TRIGGER LOCKS.”

MARYLAND

“WARNING: Children can operate firearms which may cause death or serious injury. It is a crime to store or leave a loaded firearm in any location where an individual knew or should have known that an unsupervised minor would gain access to the firearm. Store your firearm responsibly!” 

MASSACHUSETTS

“WARNING FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS ATTORNEY GENERAL: This handgun is not equipped with a device that fully blocks use by unauthorized users. More than 200,000 firearms like this one are stolen from their owners every year in the United States. In addition, there are more than a thousand suicides each year by younger children and teenagers who get access to firearms. Hundreds more die from accidental discharge. It is likely that many more children sustain serious wounds, or inflict such wounds accidentally on others. In order to limit the chance of such misuse, it is imperative that you keep this weapon locked in a secure place and take other steps necessary to limit the possibility of theft or accident. Failure to take reasonable preventative steps may result in innocent lives being lost, and in some circumstances may result in your liability for these deaths.”

“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE OR KEEP A FIREARM, RIFLE, SHOTGUN OR MACHINE GUN IN ANY PLACE UNLESS THAT WEAPON IS EQUIPPED WITH A TAMPER RESISTANT SAFETY DEVICE OR IS STORED OR KEPT IN A SECURELY LOCKED CONTAINER.” 

NEW JERSEY

“IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE TO LEAVE A LOADED FIREARM WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF A MINOR.”

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK

“THE USE OF A LOCKING DEVICE OR SAFETY LOCK IS ONLY ONE ASPECT OF RESPONSIBLE WEAPON STORAGE. ALL WEAPONS SHOULD BE STORED UNLOADED AND LOCKED IN A LOCATION THAT IS BOTH SEPARATE FROM THEIR AMMUNITION AND INACCESSIBLE TO CHILDREN AND ANY OTHER UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS. NEW YORK CITY LAW PROHIBITS, WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS, ANY PERSON FROM ACQUIRING MORE THAN ONE FIREARM, OR MORE THAN ONE RIFLE OR SHOTGUN, WITHIN A 90-DAY PERIOD.”

NORTH CAROLINA

“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE OR LEAVE A FIREARM THAT CAN BE DISCHARGED IN A MANNER THAT A REASONABLE PERSON SHOULD KNOW IS ACCESSIBLE TO A MINOR.” 

Any person who resides in the same premises as a minor, owns or possesses a firearm, and stores or leaves the firearm (i) in a condition that the firearm can be discharged and (ii) in a manner that the person knew or should have known that an unsupervised minor would be able to gain access to the firearm, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor if a minor gains access to the firearm without the lawful permission of the minor’s parents or a person having charge of the minor and the minor:

1. Possesses it in violation of G.S. 14-269.2(b)
2. Exhibits it in a public place in a careless, angry, or threatening manner;
3. Causes personal injury or death with it not in self defense; or
4. Uses it in the commission of a crime.

TEXAS

“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE, TRANSPORT, OR ABANDON AN UNSECURED FIREARM IN A PLACE WHERE CHILDREN ARE LIKELY TO BE AND CAN OBTAIN ACCESS TO THE FIREARM.”

WISCONSIN

“IF YOU LEAVE A LOADED FIREARM WITHIN THE REACH OR EASY ACCESS OF A CHILD YOU MAY BE FINED OR IMPRISONED OR BOTH IF THE CHILD IMPROPERLY DISCHARGES, POSSESSES, OR EXHIBITS THE FIREARM.”

PLEASE CONSULT YOUR LOCAL FEDERALLY LICENSED FIREARMS RETAILER, STATE POLICE, OR LOCAL POLICE FOR ADDITIONAL WARNINGS THAT MAY BE REQUIRED BY LOCAL LAW OR REGULATION. FIREARMS REGULATIONS CHANGE CONSTANTLY AND YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITIES ARE THE BEST SOURCE FOR THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION ON SUCH LEGAL MATTERS.