Chiappa 1887
The Chiappa 1887 is a family of reproductions of the Winchester Model 1887—the first successful lever-action repeating shotgun, designed by John Browning in 1887 for Winchester. Available in standard 22” and 26” barrel configurations, the compact Mares Leg with 18.5” barrel and pistol grip, the Terminator configuration inspired by its appearance in the Terminator 2 film, and the Bootleg tactical variant, the Chiappa 1887 covers the full range of 1887 configurations in current production. All are chambered in 12 gauge with a 2.75” chamber and use the 1887’s original internal locking lever mechanism.
Read our full Chiappa 1887 Buying Guide ↓
Why the 1887 Matters: The First Lever-Action Shotgun
When Winchester commissioned John Browning to design a repeating shotgun in the 1880s, the result was the Model 1887—a lever-action design that brought the same action type that had made the Winchester Model 1873 rifle famous to the shotgun category. The 1887 was the dominant repeating shotgun until pump-action designs replaced it in the early 1900s. Today the 1887 occupies a unique niche: a lever-action shotgun that handles and cycles unlike any other production firearm, with historical significance and a visual distinctiveness that no pump-action or semi-auto can replicate.
Configuration Guide: Standard, Mares Leg, Terminator, and Bootleg
The standard Chiappa 1887 uses either a 22” or 26” barrel with walnut furniture and blued or color case-hardened finish—the most historically faithful reproduction. The Mares Leg uses an 18.5” barrel with a pistol grip stock in a compact configuration historically associated with cavalry and outlaws. The Terminator—named for its appearance in Terminator 2—uses a 26” barrel and is the configuration closest to what was used in the film. The Bootleg Tactical uses an 18.5” barrel with a pistol grip and wood furniture in a defensive/tactical format. All configurations are functionally identical and chamber standard 2.75” 12 gauge shells.
The Lever-Action Cycling Manual of Arms
The 1887 cycles differently than any pump-action or semi-auto shotgun. After firing, the lever is pushed downward and forward to eject the spent shell, then pulled back to chamber a fresh round from the internal magazine. The motion is distinctive and requires practice to execute smoothly under any time pressure. For buyers who appreciate the unique experience and visual appeal of lever-action operation, the 1887 rewards practice with a genuinely different shooting experience. For buyers who need maximum speed and simplicity, a pump-action is more practical.
Practical Use: Home Defense and Cowboy Action
The Chiappa 1887 serves two primary markets. In SASS cowboy action shooting, the 1887 is a legal and popular long gun choice with a dedicated fan base who appreciate its historical authenticity in period-correct shooting scenarios. For home defense, the Mares Leg and Bootleg configurations provide a compact 12 gauge option with the visual deterrence of the 1887’s distinctive profile. For practical defensive use, standard pump-action shotguns are more ergonomic and faster to operate. The 1887’s appeal in a defensive context is primarily for buyers who specifically want the lever-action platform.
Related Pages
Browse the full Chiappa firearms lineup, explore cowboy action shooting firearms, or see all 12 gauge shotguns.