CHIAPPA FIREARMS LITTLE SHARPS 22WMR 24″ CCH
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Chiappa Firearms Little Sharps 22WMR CCH is a modern single-shot falling block rifle chambered in .22 WMR, designed for shooters who prioritize mechanical purity and precision training over high capacity. As a direct descendant of the 19th-century Sharps-Borchardt Model 1878 design, it offers a unique tactile experience absent from most modern rimfires. It's a platform for those who want to master the fundamentals of marksmanship under the discipline of a single cartridge.
What is the Chiappa Firearms Little Sharps used for?
Its primary use is as a precision training rifle and a dedicated small-game hunter for quarry such as fox or raccoon where shot placement is paramount. The single-shot action forces deliberate fire control, making each 41-grain .22 WMR round count and providing superior ballistics over standard .22 LR for cleaner takedowns at ranges out to 125 yards. This is not a plinker for throwing lead downrange; it's a tool for developing patience and long-range rimfire skills.
How does the Little Sharps compare to the Stevens 334?
The Little Sharps is fundamentally different from a bolt-action like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win; it demands a slower, more methodical shooting cadence in exchange for superior trigger feedback. Where the Stevens 334 offers a 4-round detachable box magazine for practical hunting, the Little Sharps provides a cleaner, more solid mechanical lockup due to its falling block action, resulting in potentially better inherent accuracy for the single, carefully placed shot. The Stevens is better for follow-up shots in dense brush, while the Little Sharps is better for precision from a stationary position.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
It weighs 6.2 pounds unloaded, with an overall length of 40 inches thanks to its 24-inch blued barrel. The drop at comb measures 1.5 inches and the length of pull is 13.75 inches, providing a classic, heads-up shooting stance. The balance point is just forward of the lever, making it exceptionally steady for offhand shooting once you develop the technique to work the action without breaking your cheek weld.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for a new shooter looking for a simple .22 to learn on, nor for anyone wanting a high-volume training tool or a defensive firearm. Its manual of arms—lowering the lever, inserting a single round, closing the lever, manually cocking the exposed hammer, firing, and repeating—is antiquated and slow compared to a semi-auto or even a bolt-action. If your goal is rapid-fire drills or introducing a child to shooting, look at a standard Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 5-round polymer magazine (though it's a single-shot, the magazine acts as a convenient loading block/carrier), a basic set of hex keys for mounting optics, and the mandatory cable lock. Note: unlike many modern rifles, it does not include pre-installed scope bases; you'll need to purchase 11mm dovetail or Weaver-style bases separately, which adds about $30-50 and another installation step before you can zero.
Is the Little Sharps worth it at $1366.99?
At this price, it's worth it only for the shooter who specifically values historical mechanical engagement and is willing to pay for it over pure utility. You are paying a significant premium for the case-colored hardened steel receiver, the intricate machining of the falling block, and the tangible connection to firearms history. For the same money, you could buy a high-end bolt-action .22 WMR with a premium scope, but you wouldn't get the unique tactile satisfaction of working that heavy, positive lever after every shot.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Case-colored hardened steel receiver - provides superior corrosion resistance and classic aesthetics over plain blued steel.
- 6.2 lb total weight - balances perfectly forward of the lever for steady offhand shooting.
- 24-inch blued barrel - optimal length for .22 WMR velocity, yielding approximately 1900-2000 fps with 40-grain loads.
- Exposed hammer and falling block action - offers a clear, tactile indication of firearm status and a supremely solid lockup.
Trade-offs
- Scope bases not included - adds $30-55 and an installation step before you can mount an optic.
- Single-shot only - reload cycle takes approximately 4-5 seconds for a practiced shooter, limiting high-volume training.
- Length of pull is fixed at 13.75 inches - not adjustable for smaller-statured shooters without aftermarket stock modification.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053670710696 |
| manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | 920.187 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 1 |
| color | Color Case |
| model | Little Sharps |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 9.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.45 |
| sights | Adjustable |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- No, it is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR). Firing standard .22 Long Rifle cartridges in this chamber is unsafe and will cause poor accuracy and potential fouling issues. Always verify your ammunition is marked .22 WMR before loading.
- Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases, but bases are not included. You will need to purchase separate 11mm dovetail or Weaver-style bases (a common aftermarket item from brands like EGW or Warne). Plan for an additional $30-55 and the time to install and torque them to 15-20 in-lbs.
- How long does shipping take for an online-only firearm?
- Processing and shipping to your chosen FFL dealer typically takes 3-7 business days from Ironclad Armory's warehouse. The total delivery timeline is then dependent on your FFL's receiving and transfer process, which can add another 2-5 business days. You will be contacted directly by your FFL when the firearm is ready for pickup and background check.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm returns are handled strictly on a defect-in-workmanship basis, as per federal regulations governing serialized items. If the firearm has a verifiable mechanical defect, contact Ironclad Armory within 30 days for an RMA. Fit for a particular shooter is not grounds for return; we recommend handling a similar model at a local dealer if stock length of pull is a major concern.