Description
The Taylor’s 1887 Tactical Bootleg Lever 12 Ga, 18.5″ Barrel, Wood Pistol Grip, Black is a modern, compact reimagining of the classic Winchester 1887 lever-action shotgun. It’s built for practical, close-quarters use with a short 18.5-inch barrel, a black finish, and a unique wood pistol grip stock, blending old-school mechanics with a tactical profile. This firearm offers a distinctive alternative to standard pump-actions and is priced at $1268.90.
Key Features
- Compact & Maneuverable: The 18.5-inch barrel keeps the overall length down, making it ideal for home defense or tactical scenarios where space is tight.
- Distinctive Lever-Action: Provides a fast, reliable cycling method that stands out from the sea of pump-action shotguns.
- Hybrid Aesthetic: Features a black metal finish paired with a classic wood pistol grip, offering a unique look that’s both tactical and traditional.
- Practical Capacity: Holds 5+1 rounds of 12-gauge ammunition, giving you a solid amount of firepower for its intended role.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 37.5 inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Stock | Wood Pistol Grip |
| Finish | Black |
Weighing in at roughly 8.5 pounds, it has a solid, substantial feel that helps manage 12-gauge recoil. The action is designed to be robust and the wood-to-metal fit is typically good right from the factory—no gunsmithing required for basic operation. It ships with a standard bead sight setup, keeping things simple and functional. The real question is, does the lever-action offer a tangible advantage over a Mossberg 500 or Remington 870 for the price? That depends on your priorities.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the shooter who wants a defensive shotgun that breaks the mold. It’s for the collector of interesting firearms, the tactical enthusiast bored with AR-style platforms, or someone who simply appreciates the mechanical artistry of a lever gun in a modern role. If you value uniqueness and manual operation over the sheer speed of a semi-auto, this has your name on it.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: Its standout design guarantees you won’t see another one at the range. The lever action is inherently reliable and fast with practice. The short barrel makes it highly maneuverable in confined spaces. The wood and black finish is a sharp, durable combination that wears well.
Cons: At over twelve hundred dollars, it’s a significant investment compared to a proven pump-action that might cost half as much. Reloading under stress with a lever-action tube is slower than with a modern pump. Aftermarket support for rails, lights, and other tactical accessories is far more limited than for mainstream models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What ammunition can it cycle?
A: It’s designed to reliably cycle standard 2 3/4-inch 12-gauge shells, both buckshot and slugs. It may handle some lighter target loads, but for defensive purposes, stick with full-power loads. Always check the manual for specific limitations.
Q: Is it difficult to learn the lever action for defense?
A: It requires a different manual of arms than a pump. With dedicated practice, you can achieve a very competitive cycling speed. The motion is intuitive, but mastering it under pressure demands more initial training than a standard pump.
Q: Can I add a sling or a light?
A: Yes, but options are more custom. The magazine tube is compatible with standard clamp-on mounts for lights or sling swivels designed for similar diameters. You won’t find a vast market of dedicated parts, but basic functionality can be achieved.
Look, the Taylor’s 1887 Tactical Bootleg isn’t the cheapest or most practical home defense tool on the rack. But for its price of $1268.90, it delivers unmatched character and a proven, rugged action in a compact package. If you want a shotgun that performs a job and sparks conversations at the same time, this lever-action fills that niche perfectly. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
See if this unique tactical lever gun fits into your collection.
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