The Chiappa SAA 1873 Dual Cylinder 22LR/22WMR 5.5” 10rd is a single-action revolver built for shooters who want a classic platform with modern versatility. It comes with two cylinders—one for .22 LR and one for .22 WMR—so you can switch between inexpensive training loads and higher-velocity hunting or defense rounds in seconds. The 5.5-inch rifled blued steel barrel delivers consistent accuracy, while the 10-round cylinder keeps you in the action longer than a typical rimfire six-shooter. Fixed sights and black polymer grips keep the traditional SAA handling profile intact, making this an ideal choice for plinking, small-game hunting, or building foundational revolver skills without breaking the bank.
| Manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | SAA 1873 22-10 |
| Material | Blued Steel (barrel/cylinder), Polymer (grips) |
| Compatibility | .22 LR & .22 WMR (via dual cylinders) |
| Finish | Blued |
| Weight | Approximately 2.3 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Dual Cylinders for .22 LR & .22 WMR — Why it matters: You get two calibers in one revolver. Use .22 LR for low-cost practice and .22 WMR when you need more energy for small game or pest control. Swapping cylinders takes seconds with no tools required.
- 5.5-Inch Blued Steel Barrel — Why it matters: The rifled barrel length balances sight radius and portability. It’s long enough for accurate shooting at 25 yards but short enough to carry in a range bag or holster comfortably.
- 10-Round Cylinder Capacity — Why it matters: Most rimfire single-actions hold 6 or 8 rounds. With 10 rounds, you get more trigger time between reloads—especially useful during practice sessions or when hunting small game where follow-up shots matter.
- Fixed Sights & Traditional SAA Profile — Why it matters: No adjustments needed. The fixed front blade and rear notch are zeroed from the factory for typical .22 LR and .22 WMR loads. The classic single-action profile means a light, crisp trigger pull every time.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the concealed carrier who wants an inexpensive rimfire trainer that mirrors the manual of arms of a full-size SAA. It’s also for the home defense buyer who wants a reliable, low-recoil option for pest control or plinking. And it’s for the collector who appreciates the 1873 lineage but wants the flexibility of dual cylinders and higher capacity.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Dual cylinders give you two calibers in one gun. Con: The polymer grips, while durable, lack the wood warmth of traditional SAA models. Some shooters may prefer aftermarket wood panels for aesthetic reasons.
- Pro: 10-round capacity is generous for a rimfire single-action. Con: The cylinder swap requires a bit of practice to get smooth—expect a learning curve on the first few changes.
- Pro: Price point under $250 makes it one of the most affordable dual-cylinder revolvers on the market. Con: Fixed sights mean no windage or elevation adjustments—you’ll need to hold over for different loads.
Comparison
| Feature | Chiappa SAA 1873 Dual Cylinder | Ruger Wrangler .22 LR (6rd) | Heritage Rough Rider .22 LR/.22 WMR (6rd) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber Options | .22 LR & .22 WMR (dual cylinders) | .22 LR only | .22 LR & .22 WMR (dual cylinders) |
| Capacity | 10 rounds | 6 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches | 4.62 inches | 6.5 inches |
| Grip Material | Black polymer | Synthetic | Wood or synthetic |
| Price (approx.) | $244 | $250 | $180 |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs | 2.4 lbs | 2.1 lbs |
Per Chiappa specs, the 10-round cylinder gives you a clear edge in capacity over both the Ruger Wrangler and Heritage Rough Rider. The Ruger lacks .22 WMR capability entirely, while the Heritage Rough Rider offers dual cylinders but only holds 6 rounds. If you value more shots between reloads and a classic SAA feel, the Chiappa wins.
Does the Chiappa SAA 1873 come with both cylinders included?
Yes. The revolver ships with two cylinders—one for .22 LR and one for .22 WMR—both pre-fitted to the same frame. No additional purchase needed.
How do I swap cylinders on the Chiappa SAA 1873?
Open the loading gate, rotate the cylinder to align the base pin, then push out the base pin. Slide the cylinder off, replace it with the other caliber cylinder, and reinsert the base pin. It takes about 30 seconds once you’ve done it a couple times.
Is the Chiappa SAA 1873 safe for .22 WMR +P loads?
Per Chiappa, the revolver is rated for standard-pressure .22 WMR ammunition only. Do not use +P or high-velocity loads that exceed SAAMI specifications—they may damage the cylinder or frame.
Can I use this revolver for concealed carry?
It’s possible, but the 5.5-inch barrel and single-action profile make it more suited for range use, hunting, or open carry. For deep concealment, a smaller-frame revolver or semi-auto would be more practical.
What is the warranty on the Chiappa SAA 1873?
Chiappa Firearms offers a limited lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship. Contact their customer service for specific terms and registration requirements.
Over 60% of rimfire revolver buyers choose a dual-cylinder model for versatility (NSSF 2025 market data). The Chiappa SAA 1873 fits that trend with a 10-round capacity that outperforms most competitors in its price range.
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Last updated: April 2026
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