The Chiappa 1873 SAA 22LR Revolver 4.75" 6-Round Black delivers a classic single-action experience in an affordable, easy-shooting .22 LR package. This is the revolver you grab for a day at the range or a casual plinking session behind the barn. It’s built around a 4.75-inch barrel, fixed sights, and a six-shot cylinder, all wrapped in black synthetic grips that hold up to hard use. At $157.49, it’s one of the most accessible ways to own a piece of Old West history that runs on cheap ammo.
| Manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 SAA |
| Material | Steel frame, alloy grip frame, black synthetic (polymer) grips |
| Compatibility | .22 LR ammunition; standard speedloaders and holsters for SAA-style revolvers |
| Finish | Black oxide (per manufacturer specs) |
| Weight | Approximately 31 oz (unloaded, per Chiappa specifications) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Classic Single-Action Design – WHY IT MATTERS: You get the authentic manual-of-arms of a Colt Peacemaker, including the half-cock safety notch, without the premium price tag of an original. Perfect for learning revolver fundamentals or reliving the frontier.
- .22 LR Chambering – WHY IT MATTERS: Ammo is cheap and plentiful, letting you shoot all day without breaking the bank. Recoil is negligible, making this an ideal trainer for new shooters or a fun plinker for veterans.
- 4.75-Inch Barrel – WHY IT MATTERS: The barrel length balances sight radius for accuracy with easy packing. It’s the classic “gunfighter” length that feels natural in the hand and clears a holster smoothly.
- Six-Round Cylinder – WHY IT MATTERS: You get a full cylinder of .22 LR, enough for a quick string of six at steel targets or tin cans. Loading and unloading with the loading gate is a tactile experience that connects you to the old ways.
- Black Synthetic Grips – WHY IT MATTERS: These grips are durable and weather-resistant, unlike wood grips that can crack or swell. They provide a secure hold even with sweaty hands on a hot range day.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the collector who wants a taste of the SAA legend without dropping four figures. It’s for the gun show regular who appreciates a faithful reproduction that actually shoots. It’s for the budget-minded shooter who wants a reliable .22 LR revolver for plinking, training, or introducing friends to cowboy action. If you love the look and feel of a single-action but need something affordable to run, this is your wheelhouse.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Authentic SAA styling with modern reliability – Chiappa’s manufacturing ensures consistent timing and cylinder lockup. The black finish is tough and uniform.
- Pro: .22 LR means you can shoot for pennies per round. A 500-round brick of ammo will keep you busy for multiple range trips.
- Con: The fixed sights are basic – a rear groove and front blade. They work fine for plinking at 15-25 yards, but you won’t get target-grade precision. Some shooters prefer adjustable sights for fine-tuning.
Comparison: Chiappa 1873 vs. Ruger Wrangler vs. Heritage Rough Rider
| Feature | Chiappa 1873 SAA .22 LR | Ruger Wrangler | Heritage Rough Rider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 4.75" | 4.62" or 6.5" | 4.75" or 6.5" |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Grip Material | Black synthetic | Synthetic (various colors) | Laminate wood or synthetic |
| Frame Material | Steel | Aluminum alloy | Zinc alloy |
| Price (approx) | $157.49 | $249–$269 | $129–$179 |
| Safety Features | Half-cock notch | Transfer bar + manual safety | Half-cock + manual safety (on some models) |
The Chiappa 1873 stands out here with its all-steel frame, giving it a more authentic weight and feel compared to the aluminum-frame Ruger Wrangler or the zinc-alloy Heritage Rough Rider. The Ruger Wrangler offers a transfer bar safety, which is a plus for some, but the Chiappa’s half-cock system is truer to the original SAA. The Heritage Rough Rider is cheaper, but the Chiappa’s steel construction and tighter tolerances (per Chiappa specs) give it a step up in longevity and finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chiappa 1873 SAA .22 LR a safe design for new shooters?
Yes. The revolver uses a half-cock safety notch on the hammer, which prevents the gun from firing unless the hammer is fully cocked. Always follow standard firearm safety rules: keep it pointed in a safe direction, treat it as loaded, and store it unloaded when not in use.
Can I use .22 Short or .22 Long ammo in this revolver?
The cylinder is chambered for .22 LR (Long Rifle). You can safely fire .22 Long, .22 Short, or .22 CB Caps in it, but accuracy and reliability may vary. Stick with .22 LR for best performance and consistent ignition.
Does this revolver come with a manual or warranty?
Yes, each new Chiappa 1873 SAA includes an owner’s manual and a limited one-year warranty from Chiappa Firearms. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
What holster fits the 4.75-inch barrel?
Standard single-action revolver holsters sized for a 4.75-inch barrel work well. Look for holsters designed for Colt SAA or Ruger Vaquero with that barrel length. Many leather and synthetic options are available at gun shows or online retailers.
Is this revolver legal to own in my state?
We ship to all 50 states, but check your local laws regarding firearm purchases. Some states have age restrictions, waiting periods, or licensing requirements. Contact your local firearms authority for specific regulations.
Ready to Add This Classic to Your Collection?
This Chiappa 1873 SAA .22 LR revolver is in stock and ready to ship. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy single-action shooting without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time revolver buyer, this piece delivers the look, feel, and fun of the Old West.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Explore more in our Revolvers category or check out .22 LR Handguns and Single-Action Revolvers for similar deals.
Last updated: April 2026




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