The Chiappa SAA 1873 is a single-action revolver chambered in .17 HMR, built on the classic Colt Single Action Army profile with a 4.75-inch barrel and a 6-round cylinder. The black finish is applied over steel, and the overall weight comes in at 2.5 lbs (approximately 40 oz). 
 

Key Specifications 

• UPC: 8053670717022 
• Caliber: .17 HMR 
• Action: Single Action 
• Barrel Length: 4.75 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Weight: 2.5 lbs (approx. 40 oz) 
• Finish: Black 
• Manufacturer: Chiappa Firearms 
   

Detailed Features 

• Single Action Mechanism: The hammer must be cocked manually before each shot, which encourages a deliberate shooting cadence. 
   
• Fixed Front Sights: Functional for close-range use; not adjustable but appropriate for the pistol's intended applications. 
   
• Exposed Hammer: Standard for the SAA pattern, allowing quick and reliable cocking. 
   
• Steel Construction with Blued Accents: Gives the revolver a traditional appearance and reasonable durability. 
   
  The .17 HMR caliber is an interesting pairing with the SAA frame. It delivers flat trajectories and low recoil, making this a capable small-game and target revolver in a historically styled package.

The Chiappa SAA 1873 in .17 HMR generates a fairly consistent set of reactions among people who own or have shot one.

The design gets the most attention. Most owners appreciate the classic SAA proportions and the blued finish's traditional look. For anyone who grew up around cowboy-action shooting or Western firearms, there's genuine appeal to the styling.

The .17 HMR chambering is what makes this revolver unusual. Reviewers regularly note that the caliber delivers accurate, flat-shooting performance with minimal recoil, which translates well to target shooting and small-game hunting at modest ranges. It's a niche choice, and most owners know that going in.

Reliability draws some criticism. A few users have reported inconsistency with feeding and ejection, though the single-action format means these issues tend to be minor inconveniences rather than functional stoppages. The consensus is that it's a capable range and hunting gun, not a defensive option.

For collectors, the combination of an SAA-pattern frame and a modern rimfire caliber gives it some novelty value. Most recommend it to anyone interested in an unusual rimfire revolver rather than someone looking for a primary carry or defense gun.