The Chiappa Model 1886 Color Case is a lever-action rifle chambered in .45-70 Govt., with a 26" blued barrel and a color case hardened receiver. The exposed hammer design is traditional and functional, allowing a fast first shot from a cocked position. Front and rear sights are both adjustable -- windage on the front blade, windage and elevation on the buckhorn rear -- which is more capability than many vintage-style lever guns offer. 
 

Key Specifications 

• GSIN: CHPPF-SMID1SLE 
• Manufacturer: Chiappa Firearms 
• Model: 1886 
• Series: Color Case 
• Caliber: .45-70 Govt. 
• Barrel Length: 26 inches 
• Capacity: 8 rounds 
• Weight: 9 lbs (144 oz) 
• Total Length: 45 inches 
• Action Type: Lever 
• Barrel Finish: Blued 
• Receiver Finish: Color Case 
• Stock Material: Walnut with Hand Oiled Finish 
• Sights Front: Adjustable Windage Blade 
• Sights Rear: Buckhorn Adjustable Windage & Elevation 
   
  The hand-oiled walnut stock is fixed, giving a stable platform for the relatively stout recoil of the .45-70 cartridge. At 9 lb the rifle is substantial; that weight helps manage the cartridge's push but adds up during a long day afield. The .45-70 caliber handles big game well, and the 8-round capacity is adequate for hunting applications.

The Chiappa 1886 Color Case in .45-70 draws appreciation mainly for its looks -- the color case receiver, walnut stock, and blued barrel get consistently positive comments from both shooters and collectors. The lever action is described as smooth, and accuracy in .45-70 is generally well-regarded.

Weight comes up regularly as a downside, particularly for hunters carrying the rifle over long distances. A small number of users report feeding issues with certain ammunition types, which is worth noting for anyone planning to run non-standard loads. Price discussions are mixed -- some consider it fair for the craftsmanship, others find it high.

Historical interest in the 1886 design is part of the appeal for many buyers, and that context comes through in how users talk about the rifle. For a .45-70 lever gun with traditional styling, it has a loyal following.