Description
Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg 12ga 18.5in Blued/Case Hardened
The Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg 12ga 18.5in Blued/Case Hardened is a compact lever-action shotgun that brings the classic 1887 design into a handy, short-barreled package. With an 18.5-inch smoothbore barrel, color case hardened receiver, and polished oiled walnut furniture, this 12-gauge repeater delivers authentic period styling in a reduced overall length that collectors and traditional shooters will appreciate.
| Manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | 1887 Mare’s Leg |
| Material | Steel barrel, walnut stock and forend |
| Compatibility | 12-gauge 2.75-inch shells (per manufacturer specs) |
| Finish | Blued barrel and magazine tube, color case hardened receiver |
| Weight | Approximately 6.5 pounds (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Compact 18.5-inch barrel: WHY IT MATTERS: This shorter barrel makes the Mare’s Leg easy to maneuver in tight spaces, ideal for truck guns, range toys, or close-quarters plinking without sacrificing the classic lever-action feel.
- Color case hardened receiver: WHY IT MATTERS: The traditional case coloring adds vintage visual appeal and surface durability, resisting wear from handling and recoil better than plain blued steel in high-contact areas.
- Polished oiled walnut furniture: WHY IT MATTERS: The oil finish on the pistol grip and forend provides a warm, natural grip that absorbs sweat and recoil, keeping your hands secure during rapid fire sequences.
- Authentic 1887 lever-action profile: WHY IT MATTERS: The preserved lever-action silhouette delivers that iconic cowboy-action look and feel, making it a conversation starter at the range and a reliable repeater for fun shooting sessions.
Who It’s For
The Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg is built for families and beginners who want a safe, easy-to-handle lever-action shotgun for recreational shooting, plinking, and introducing new shooters to the joy of lever guns. Its compact size and manageable recoil make it a great choice for youth shooters learning to shoot from a standing or seated position. Collectors and traditionalists will also appreciate the period-correct finish and walnut furniture.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Compact length fits in a safe or scabbard easily; authentic case hardening and walnut look fantastic; lever action is smooth and fun to cycle; reliable with standard 12-gauge 2.75-inch loads.
- Cons: The Mare’s Leg design has a shorter sight radius than full-length shotguns, which may reduce precision at longer distances; the 18.5-inch barrel produces a louder report compared to longer barrels.
Comparison: Chiappa 1887 vs. Zev Technologies OZ9 vs. Agency Arms Glock 19X
| Feature | Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms Glock 19X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Lever-action shotgun | Striker-fired pistol | Striker-fired pistol |
| Caliber/Gauge | 12-gauge | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches | 4.5 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Overall Length | 30 inches (approx.) | 7.5 inches | 7.44 inches |
| Weight | ~6.5 lbs | ~24 oz | ~25 oz |
FAQ
What type of ammunition does the Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg use?
It accepts 12-gauge 2.75-inch shells. Per manufacturer specs, do not use 3-inch magnum shells, as the action is not designed for them.
Is the Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg legal to own without a tax stamp?
Yes, because the barrel is 18.5 inches and the overall length is over 26 inches, it qualifies as a Title I firearm (regular shotgun) and does not require a tax stamp or NFA registration.
How do I clean and maintain the color case hardened receiver?
Wipe the receiver with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to prevent rust. Avoid abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as they can scratch the case hardening. Use a soft brush for the action.
Can I mount a scope or red dot on this shotgun?
The receiver has a standard 3/8-inch dovetail groove, so you can add a small red dot or scout scope with the appropriate mount. Keep in mind the short barrel and lever action may require a forward-mounted optic for eye relief.
Trust the Chiappa 1887 Mare’s Leg for Your Family Range Time
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
According to a 2023 NSSF survey, lever-action shotguns represent 12% of all shotgun sales in the U.S., with compact variants like the Mare’s Leg growing in popularity among recreational shooters. Lever Action Shotguns | Compact Shotguns
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