Chiappa Triple Threat

The Chiappa Triple Threat is a side-by-side-by-side 3-barreled break-action shotgun—quite possibly the only three-barreled production shotgun available anywhere. Available in 12 gauge and 20 gauge with an 18.5” barrel, extractors, and a walnut stock, the Triple Threat fires three shells before requiring reloading and uses three separate triggers for each barrel. It is part conversation piece, part practical firearm, and entirely unique. No other major manufacturer offers anything like it.

Read our full Chiappa Triple Threat Buying Guide ↓

How the Triple Threat Works: Three Barrels, Three Triggers

The Chiappa Triple Threat uses a traditional break-action design scaled to accommodate three barrels arranged side by side. Three separate triggers, each corresponding to one barrel, allow the shooter to fire each barrel independently in any order. After three shots the action breaks open, extractors lift the spent shells partially out of the chambers for removal, and three fresh shells can be loaded. The operation is entirely manual—no gas system, no recoil operation, just a simple, robust break-action mechanism applied to an unusual three-barrel format.

12 Gauge vs. 20 Gauge: Which Triple Threat?

The Triple Threat in 12 gauge delivers maximum shotgun payload per trigger pull—appropriate for home defense where the 12 gauge’s larger shot charge and higher energy are the priority. The 20 gauge version offers reduced recoil with lighter loads, making three-shot rapid fire more manageable for smaller-framed shooters or those who find 12 gauge recoil uncomfortable. Both use 3” chambers for full-power loads. For home defense where maximum deterrence and capability matter, 12 gauge. For shooters who want the three-barrel experience with more comfortable recoil, 20 gauge.

The Three-Barrel Advantage: Three Shots Without Reloading

The practical argument for three barrels over two is simple: one additional shot before reloading. In a home defense scenario, three available shots from a break-action design provides more buffer than two before the manual reload sequence. The Triple Threat’s 18.5” barrel length keeps it legal as a shotgun without NFA registration while remaining maneuverable indoors. For buyers who specifically want a break-action design—simpler, more reliable, and easier to verify safe than any semi-automatic or pump—the Triple Threat provides maximum capacity within that format.

Walnut Stock and Italian Build Quality

The Triple Threat uses a walnut stock and Chiappa’s Italian manufacturing quality—the same production standards behind the Rhino revolver and 1873 SAA reproductions. The three-barrel format requires precise barrel regulation to ensure all three barrels hit to the same point of aim, and Chiappa’s manufacturing delivers that consistency. The walnut stock adds visual appeal to what is already an inherently eye-catching firearm.

Browse the full Chiappa lineup, explore other Chiappa shotguns on the Chiappa 1887 page, or see all shotguns.