The Pietta 1878 Double Barrel Deluxe Coach is a side-by-side shotgun built on a traditional pattern. The walnut-and-blued combination gives it period-correct looks, while the color case hardened side plate is a functional nod to 19th-century craftsmanship. 
 

Key Specifications 

• UPC: 8052464213504 
• Gauge: 12 GA 
• Action: Side by Side 
• Capacity: 2 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 20 inches 
• Weight: 7 lbs. 
• Finish: Walnut, Blued 
   

Features 

• Double external hammers let you see at a glance which barrels are cocked, and the wide hammer spurs make them easy to thumb back. 
• Color case hardened side plate resists wear and keeps the vintage aesthetic intact. 
• Fixed cylinder choke keeps patterns open, which suits close-range work and cowboy action stages where wide spreads matter. 
• Bead front sight gives a quick, unobstructed sight picture. 
• Double trigger system fires each barrel independently, so you can choose your sequence on the fly. 
   
  At 7 lbs. the gun is manageable for extended range sessions. The 20-inch barrels keep it compact without giving up much on pattern consistency. It handles reasonably well for home defense, competitive cowboy action shooting, or historical reenactments where a period-accurate coach gun is required.

Owners of the Pietta 1878 Double Barrel Coach Shotgun tend to appreciate its classic styling and the authenticity of the double-hammer design. The walnut finish draws consistent positive comments for its looks, and cowboy action shooters particularly like it for the role it fills in that sport.

On the practical side, most users find it reliable and straightforward to operate, which works in its favor for both new and experienced shooters. The double-barrel mechanism is simple and there is not much to go wrong with it.

Common criticisms include weight during extended shooting sessions and recoil with heavier loads. A handful of buyers have noted fit-and-finish inconsistencies or minor function issues out of the box, though these reports are not universal. Discussions around the gun often drift toward maintenance routines and simple modifications to improve reliability or ergonomics.