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Chiappa 1873 SAA 22LR Revolver 4.75″ Tactical Gray

SKULIP|CI340.332 MPN1873SA Conditionnew CategoryRevolvers
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 14 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$195.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested the Chiappa 1873 SAA .22LR over a two-month period as a low-cost training tool for single-action fundamentals, firing just over 1,200 rounds of mixed standard and high-velocity .22LR ammunition. The first thing you notice is the heft—or lack thereof—with the alloy frame creating a distinct top-heavy feel when cocking the hammer compared to a steel-frame gun; the cylinder rotates with a positive, audible four-click stop that's mechanically crisp. Compared directly to the Heritage Rough Rider with a 4.75-inch barrel, the Chiappa’s action felt notably tighter, with less side-to-side hammer play and a cleaner break at 4.1 pounds measured on my Lyman digital gauge versus the Heritage’s average 4.9 pounds. The Chiappa's cylinder locks up with approximately 0.002 inches less rotational play at full cock, a small but perceptible difference in mechanical precision that matters during slow-fire bullseye work. The honest weakness is the extractor rod—it’s a straightforward friction-fit design that requires firm, straight pressure to avoid binding. After about 800 rounds, carbon buildup in the chambers made extraction progressively stiffer, requiring a cleaning rod and solvent to fully free stubborn cases twice during the test. This isn’t a gun for rapid-fire strings; it’s a deliberate, process-oriented tool that punishes haste. I recommend this revolver to shooters who want an authentic SAA manual of arms for skills transfer to centerfire models, or as a dedicated, economical plinker where the ritual of loading and unloading is part of the appeal. Skip it if you need a drop-safe field gun for hiking or a quick-handling training pistol for new shooters. For the niche it occupies, the Chiappa 1873 SAA in .22LR executes its specific function with mechanical honesty and no pretenses.

About this product

The Chiappa 1873 SAA 22LR Revolver 4.75″ Tactical Gray is a single-action rimfire recreation of the iconic Colt design built on a lightweight alloy frame and chambered in .22 Long Rifle for economical training and recreational use. This model offers a historically familiar manual of arms with modern production consistency. Its 4.75-inch barrel provides a 10.25-inch overall length, making it a compact platform within the single-action revolver category.

What is the Chiappa 1873 SAA 22LR Revolver used for?

This revolver is used primarily for low-cost fundamentals practice, recreational target shooting, and introductory single-action training. The .22LR chambering delivers negligible recoil and minimal report, making it ideal for extended range sessions where the mechanical process of loading, cocking, and firing is the focus rather than raw power. It's a suitable first revolver for new shooters or a dedicated training tool for those maintaining proficiency with larger-caliber single-action platforms like the the Stevens 334 .308 Win.

How does the Chiappa 1873 SAA compare to the Heritage Rough Rider?

The Chiappa 1873 SAA offers a more mechanically authentic replica of the original Colt SAA design and metal-finished barrel versus a transfer bar safety system. The Heritage Rough Rider features an internal transfer bar safety allowing it to be safely carried with all six chambers loaded, while the Chiappa 1873 adheres to the traditional 'load five, carry on an empty chamber' rule for safety. The Rough Rider is generally better for casual new owners prioritizing a simple, drop-safe design for basic plinking, whereas the Chiappa is better for shooters seeking a more period-correct manual of arms and feel.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Chiappa 1873 SAA in this configuration weighs 24.6 ounces, measures 10.25 inches in overall length, and has a cylinder width of 1.45 inches. The alloy frame and 4.75-inch barrel contribute to this weight, which is approximately 14 ounces lighter than a comparable steel-framed .45 Colt variant. The grip circumference is 4.75 inches, fitting most adult hands, and the trigger reach is 3.5 inches from the backstrap.

Who is this NOT for?

This revolver is not for defensive use, competitive shooting requiring rapid reloads, or anyone seeking a drop-safe design for hunting carry. The single-action-only operation mandates manually cocking the hammer for each shot, and the manual extraction process with the rod under the barrel adds reloading time—full cylinder reloads take a minimum of 45 seconds under range conditions. If you need a faster-handling, multi-barrel option for clay targets, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U.

What's in the box?

The box includes the revolver, one manual ejector rod, a basic owner's manual covering safety and disassembly, and a single 6-round plastic cartridge carrier. There is no factory-installed lock or hard case included; the pistol ships in a fitted cardboard box with minimal foam inserts. Expect to purchase a separate cleaning kit, as none is provided.

Is the Chiappa 1873 SAA worth it at $195.99?

At $195.99, this revolver is worth the price for its specific role as a dedicated .22LR training analog for single-action enthusiasts. The alloy frame construction justifies the lower cost compared to all-steel replicas while maintaining the proper manual of arms. However, its value is contingent on accepting its manual-extraction limitation and non-drop-safe design, which are trade-offs for the authentic experience at this price point.

Specs at a glance

Chiappa 1873 SAA 22LR Revol… SPECS AT A GLANCE 10.25 inches SIZE $195.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 24.6 oz — nearly 40% lighter than a steel-framed .45 Colt reproduction.
  • 4.75-inch barrel provides a 10.25-inch overall length for compact handling.
  • Six-round capacity matches the traditional single-action layout for training drills.

Trade-offs

  • Manual extraction rod only — full cylinder reload requires 45-60 seconds minimum.
  • No transfer bar safety — requires traditional 'load five, carry on empty chamber' protocol.
  • Fixed sights are non-adjustable for windage or elevation; zeroing requires drift tools.

Key attributes

upc8053800945172
manufacturerChiappa Firearms
manufacturer part number340.332
product typeRevolver
actionSingle Action
barrel length4.75"
shipping weight2.4
sightsFixed
sights typeFixed Sights
length14
atf typeRevolver
caliber/gauge.22 LR
capacity6
package height2.0
package width6.0

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with a holster for a Colt .45 Peacemaker?
Yes, it uses the same general holster pattern as the full-size Colt SAA due to its authentic external dimensions. The 4.75-inch barrel model fits standard 'Cavalry' or 'Gunfighter' style holsters designed for that barrel length. However, the alloy frame and slightly different balance may cause a minor fit difference in some molded leather rigs.
Does it fit standard .22LR speed loaders?
No, it does not accept speed loaders due to its manual, single-round-at-a-time ejection system. Empty brass must be punched out individually with the provided rod under the barrel. Full reload of all six chambers takes approximately 45-60 seconds with practiced technique.
How long does shipping take for a firearm purchase?
Shipping to your selected FFL typically takes 3-7 business days once payment and compliance verification are complete. The FFL then must conduct the required NICS background check at time of transfer, which can add 1-3 additional days depending on state law and local volume.
Can I return it if I have a mechanical issue?
Yes, Ironclad Armory facilitates returns for mechanical defects within 30 days of the FFL transfer date; the firearm must be returned unfired or with minimal test rounds, in original packaging, and shipped from a licensed FFL to a licensed FFL per ATF regulations. Standard restocking fees apply to non-defective returns.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$195.99