Description
Ever wanted a shotgun that feels like it walked straight out of a western but works like a modern defensive tool? That’s the itch the Taylor’s 1887 Lever 12 Ga, 18.5″ Barrel, Wood, Pistol Grip Rubber Coating Black scratches perfectly. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of birdshot and buckshot through one, and it’s a blast—literally and figuratively. It’s a modern, pistol-grip-stocked, short-barreled reproduction of the classic Winchester 1887 lever-action shotgun, built for fast handling and serious presence. At $1276.79, it’s a specialized piece that bridges history and modern utility.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t your grandpa’s long-barreled bird gun. The 18.5-inch barrel and compact overall length make it surprisingly maneuverable. The action is smooth once broken in, and that rubber-coated pistol grip gives you a solid, non-slip hold for positive control. It’s a conversation starter at the range and a legitimate option for home defense, though it demands practice to master the unique lever-action rhythm under pressure. The fit and finish on the Taylor’s version are solid, and it’s drop-in ready—no gunsmithing required to start running standard 2 3/4″ 12-gauge shells.
Key Features & Handling
The heart of this gun is its action. Working the lever is a satisfying, mechanical dance that never gets old. It forces you to be deliberate, turning each shot into a conscious act. The walnut forend and rubber-coated grip strike a nice balance between classic aesthetics and modern ergonomics. I found it points naturally, and the shorter barrel swings quickly in tight spaces. Just remember, it’s a lever-action, so your support hand is doing the work up front. The magazine tube holds 5+1 rounds of 12-gauge, giving you a decent capacity for its role. With an overall length of just over 37 inches, it stores easily but still feels substantial in the hands.
Specs & Details
| Gauge: | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″) |
| Barrel Length: | 18.5 inches |
| Overall Length: | ~37.5 inches |
| Capacity: | 5+1 Rounds |
| Stock: | Walnut Forend, Rubber-Coated Pistol Grip |
| Finish: | Black |
The Pros & The Cons
On the plus side, you get undeniable cool factor and a very handy package. It’s reliable with standard ammo, built on a proven historical design, and it’s just plain fun to shoot. The uniqueness alone is a big draw. On the downside, it’s slower to operate than a pump or semi-auto for follow-up shots. It’s also on the heavier side for a shotgun of this length, weighing in around 8 pounds, and the lever throw takes real practice to do quickly and smoothly. It’s a niche firearm, not a do-everything workhorse.
Who This Is For
This is for the shooter who values character and manual operation as much as pure function. It’s a fantastic choice for a historical firearms enthusiast, a cowboy action shooter looking for something different, or someone seeking a highly intimidating and effective home defense tool that requires skill to run well. It’s also for the collector who appreciates modern reproductions of iconic guns. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can it shoot modern, high-power slugs and buckshot?
A: Yes. This reproduction is built to handle modern 12-gauge 2 3/4″ ammunition, including standard buckshot and slug loads. Always check the manufacturer’s manual for specific pressure limits, but it’s designed for contemporary ammo.
Q: Is it difficult to load and unload?
A: It has a learning curve. You load through the port on the side of the receiver, similar to many lever-action rifles. To unload, you work the lever to cycle each unfired round out the ejection port. It’s not as fast as a bottom-ejecting pump, but it becomes second nature.
Q: Are accessories like slings or shell holders available?
A: Yes, but they can be model-specific. Many leathersmiths and tactical gear companies make shell cards and buttstock sleeves that will work. For sling mounts, you may need to look for solutions designed for the 1887’s specific stock configuration, though some universal options can be adapted.
If the idea of a short, potent lever-action shotgun with a ton of personality speaks to you, this Taylor’s 1887 is worth a close look. Check its availability on our site.
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