The Chiappa 1873 SAA 22LR Revolver 4.75″ Tactical Gray is a lightweight single-action six-shooter built for low-recoil training, plinking, and discreet carry. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle and weighing just over 24 ounces, this alloy-frame revolver gives you the classic Colt-style platform without the weight or ammo cost of centerfire calibers. Fixed sights and a manual-extraction system keep operation simple and reliable — exactly what you need for building fundamentals or keeping a backup piece in your truck kit.
| Manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 SAA |
| Material | Alloy frame, steel barrel and cylinder |
| Caliber Compatibility | .22 Long Rifle |
| Finish | Tactical Gray cerakote (per manufacturer specs) |
| Weight | 24.5 oz unloaded |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Lightweight Alloy Frame — WHY IT MATTERS: At 24.5 ounces, this revolver won’t drag down your belt or fatigue your arms during a long range session. It’s one of the lightest single-action .22s on the market, making it ideal for new shooters or as a packable trail gun.
- 4.75-Inch Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: The classic sixgun barrel length balances sight radius for accuracy with a compact profile that fits most holsters. You get a full-size sight plane without the bulk of a 5.5-inch or 7.5-inch tube.
- Six-Round Capacity — WHY IT MATTERS: Six rounds of .22 LR give you plenty of trigger time between reloads. For training, that means more reps per cylinder; for plinking, less downtime swapping empties.
- Fixed Front and Rear Sights — WHY IT MATTERS: No adjustments to lose zero or complicate use. You load, aim, and fire — the same manual of arms as the original 1873 Colt, but in a modern, affordable package.
- Manual Extraction (No Ejector Rod Housing) — WHY IT MATTERS: Keeps the profile clean and reduces snag points. You push the empties out via the base pin — simple, reliable, and historically accurate for a budget-friendly SAA clone.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits three roles: first-time revolver shooters who want to learn on a .22 without recoil, experienced shooters looking for a low-cost training companion for their centerfire single-actions, and anyone who wants a lightweight, packable .22 for plinking or casual carry. The Tactical Gray finish also appeals to shooters who prefer a modern look over traditional blued or case-hardened styles.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Ultra-light alloy frame reduces fatigue; affordable price point for a sixgun; .22 LR ammo is cheap and plentiful; classic SAA ergonomics train muscle memory for larger calibers; Tactical Gray finish resists holster wear.
Cons: Manual extraction is slower than swing-out cylinders — not ideal for rapid reloads. The alloy frame also means this revolver is not recommended for hot .22 LR loads like Stingers or high-velocity rounds (per Chiappa’s manual). Stick with standard-velocity or subsonic ammo for best reliability.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | Chiappa 1873 SAA .22 LR | Ruger Wrangler 4.62″ | Heritage Rough Rider 4.75″ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Alloy (lightweight) | Aluminum alloy | Zinc alloy |
| Weight | 24.5 oz | 30 oz | 31 oz |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Finish Options | Tactical Gray, Black, Silver | Cerakote colors | Blued, case-hardened, color |
| Price | $195 | $250 | $130 |
| Sights | Fixed | Fixed | Fixed |
The Chiappa splits the difference — lighter than the Ruger, better build than the Heritage, and a unique Tactical Gray finish not found on either competitor.
FAQ
Is the Chiappa 1873 SAA .22 LR safe to carry cocked?
Yes, but only if the hammer is on an empty chamber. Like all single-action revolvers, the 1873 SAA has no transfer bar safety. For carry, load five rounds, lower the hammer on an empty chamber, and keep the sixth chamber empty. This is standard SAA safety practice.
Can I use .22 Short or .22 Long in this revolver?
No. The cylinder is chambered specifically for .22 Long Rifle. Do not attempt to fire .22 Short or .22 Long — they may not headspace correctly and could cause misfires or case ruptures. Stick to .22 LR only.
Does this revolver come with a manual or warranty?
Yes. Chiappa includes a basic owner’s manual and a limited one-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims. We recommend reading the manual thoroughly before first use.
What holster fits the Chiappa 1873 SAA 4.75″ barrel?
Any holster designed for a 4.75-inch Colt Single Action Army or clone (e.g., Ruger Vaquero 4.62″) will work. Look for leather or nylon thumb-break holsters. The Tactical Gray finish is durable but avoid kydex that’s too tight — it may scratch the cerakote.
Is this revolver compatible with aftermarket grips?
Yes. The Chiappa 1873 SAA uses standard Colt SAA grip frames. Any grip panel made for a full-size SAA will fit — wood, synthetic, rubber, or custom. Swap them easily with a single screw.
Why Buy from Us
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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