The Chiappa 1887 Fast Load is a lever-action shotgun that pairs classic 19th-century styling with a few practical updates. The blued steel barrel and hand-oiled walnut stock give it the look of a period piece, while the fast-load mechanism is the main functional departure from a standard 1887. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Chiappa Firearms 
• Model: 1887 
• Series: Fast Load 
• GSIN: CHPPF-CWBIE34Z 
• UPC: 8053670712645 
• MSRP: $1480 
• Action Type: Lever 
• Gauge: 12 Gauge 
• Barrel Length: Not specified (consult specifications) 
• Capacity Standard: 2 rounds 
• Chamber Size: 2.75 inches 
• Weight: 144 ounces (9 lbs) 
• Total Length: 39 inches 
• Barrel Material: Steel 
• General Finish: Blued 
• Grip Material: Walnut (Hand Oiled) 
• Stock Material: Walnut (Hand Oiled) 
• Stock Structure: Fixed 
   

Features 

 
The lever action cycles smoothly and allows quick follow-up shots, a real advantage in competitive shooting or field use where a pump or semi-auto isn't required. The blued steel barrel holds up well to regular use. Metal bead front sights handle target acquisition at typical shotgun ranges without fuss. The internal safety prevents accidental discharges while staying out of the way during normal operation. 
 
The hand-oiled walnut grip feels good in the hand and gives solid control during firing. At 9 lbs and 39 inches overall, it's on the heavier side for a two-round shotgun, which is worth noting for anyone who plans to carry it for long periods. 
 
At $1,480 MSRP, this is priced as a collector and competition piece rather than a utility field gun. It suits cowboy action shooting, historical collections, and anyone who specifically wants a lever-action 12 gauge with faster loading than the original design.

Owners of the Chiappa 1887 Fast Load tend to split along predictable lines. Those drawn to cowboy action shooting or historical lever-actions appreciate the blued finish and walnut stock. The gun looks the part and handles well enough for timed competition stages. The fast-load mechanism gets genuine praise from competitive shooters who find it noticeably quicker than a standard 1887 tube load.

On the critical side, some users report cycling issues, particularly with certain ammunition. Durability concerns come up among shooters who run it hard, and a few note that follow-up reliability doesn't always match what more modern shotguns offer. Recoil opinions vary, manageable for most, but the fixed stock and 9-lb weight don't absorb kick the way a gas-operated semi-auto would.

The $1,480 price is a recurring topic. Most buyers who are satisfied see it as fair for the craftsmanship and the niche it fills; those who expected utility-shotgun performance at that price tend to be disappointed. Overall, satisfaction tracks closely with whether the buyer wanted a lever-action specifically or just a capable 12 gauge.