Description
The Chiappa Firearms 1887 Fast Load Lever Action 12 Ga, 22″, Wood Stock, Blued is a modern, Italian-made reproduction of the classic Winchester 1887 shotgun. It’s a lever-action 12-gauge built for nostalgia, cowboy action shooting, and practical use, featuring a 22-inch barrel, traditional blued finish, and a solid wood stock. This shotgun offers a unique manual-action alternative to pumps and autos, blending 19th-century style with 21st-century manufacturing for reliable function.
Key Features
- Fast Load System: The unique action allows for loading shells directly into the magazine tube without cycling the lever, speeding up reloads—a huge plus in timed competition stages.
- Classic Lever-Action Design: Delivers the iconic look and manual operation of the Old West, perfect for historical reenactors and fans of Westerns.
- Durable 22″ Barrel: A practical length that balances maneuverability and sight radius, finished in a deep, corrosion-resistant blue.
- Solid Wood Stock & Forend: Provides a traditional feel and robust construction that stands up to regular use better than many synthetic alternatives.
- Budget-Conscious Nostalgia: Compared to original antique 1887s or custom-built replicas, this factory offering delivers the classic experience at a more accessible price point of $1161.45.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ shells) |
| Action | Lever Action |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 41.5 Inches |
| Stock | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
| Magazine Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Weight | Approx. 7.7 lbs |
The shotgun’s heft, around seven and a half pounds, helps manage 12-gauge recoil, making it surprisingly shootable. It’s chambered for standard 2 3/4″ shells, so you’re not hunting for obscure ammunition. The real question is, does the value match the vibe? For a shooter wanting that specific lever-action shotgun feel without a collector’s price tag, it absolutely does. It’s a working piece of history that’s drop-in ready for the range.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Chiappa 1887 is built for a specific shooter. First and foremost, it’s for Cowboy Action Shooting competitors registered with organizations like SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) who need a reliable, period-correct shotgun that won’t break the bank. Second, it’s for the firearms enthusiast who appreciates historical mechanics and wants a unique, conversation-starting shotgun for the collection or occasional clay busting. It’s not a tactical home defense tool or a dedicated waterfowl gun—it’s a specialized piece for fun and competition.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: The standout advantage is the unique Fast Load system, a genuine functional improvement over the original design that saves seconds in competition. The classic aesthetics with real wood and deep bluing offer great look and feel for the money. Its manual action is inherently reliable with a wide variety of ammunition, from light target loads to standard buckshot. Finally, it provides the iconic 1887 experience without the fragility and cost of a true antique.
Cons: Lever-action shotguns have a steeper learning curve for fast, smooth operation compared to pumps. The 22-inch barrel and overall length make it less handy in tight spaces than a modern short-barreled shotgun. While the price is good for what it is, it’s still a significant investment for a niche firearm. Some users may find the action requires a break-in period to become truly slick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun shoot modern 12-gauge ammunition, including slugs?
A: Yes, it is chambered for standard 2 3/4″ 12-gauge shells. It can safely fire target loads, buckshot, and foster-style rifled slugs. Always check your specific ammunition against the manufacturer’s guidelines first.
Q: Is the Chiappa 1887 difficult to maintain and clean?
A: Not particularly. The takedown process is straightforward for basic field-stripping, allowing easy access to the barrel and action for routine cleaning—similar complexity to many other lever-action firearms. No gunsmithing required for standard maintenance.
Q: How does it compare to a pump-action shotgun for a first-time buyer?
A: Look, for a general-purpose first shotgun, a pump like a Mossberg 500 or Remington 870 is usually the smarter, more versatile, and less expensive choice. The Chiappa 1887 is a fantastic second or third gun for someone who specifically wants the lever-action experience, historical connection, or needs it for cowboy action competition. It’s a purpose-driven purchase.
This Chiappa Firearms 1887 Fast Load Lever Action shotgun is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If the blend of classic Western aesthetics, unique manual operation, and practical competition features aligns with your shooting goals, it represents a solid value in a niche market. Consider adding this distinctive lever-action to your collection.
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