Chiappa 1892 12 vs 16 inches

What are you planning to use it for? Hunting vs. range use might get you different input, for example.

I can't speak to the Chiappa specifically, but I've had Rossi 1892 clones in those lengths (functionally similar).

Weight is not a big difference between those lengths, but it is there. The balance and handling is very different though. For handling, the 12" is actually shorter than I prefer. Unless you're in super thick brush or you need it as short as possible for ease of storage in a small space (boat or plane, etc.). But some people disagree and prefer the 12" handling all around.

All other things being equal, the mechanical accuracy is probably not going to be significantly different. But if you're using iron sights, then the practical accuracy is better with the 16" barrel. The longer sighting plane is a real advantage.

The other issue with the 12" is that it's much louder and the muzzle blast is quite a bit heavier. But not everybody notices or cares about this, and it also depends on your choice of ammunition.
 
I was looking to use it for fun/target… the 12’’ seams a bit extreme yet quite charming.
My concern on weight was mostly on the specs, Chiappa and retailers indicate weight fron 5.5lbs to 8lbs on the 16’’ Scorpio, trapper and skinner. Is it a mistake?
 
The Chiappa model names can be confusing - Are you comparing the 12" barrel version with the cut-down "Mare's Leg" stock to the 16" barrel version with the full buttstock? Those are very different animals indeed. Most people find the cut-down stock to be very inconvenient for shooting, and they are very difficult to shoot accurately. I think they're mostly a novelty gun, and I don't recommend it unless you've had a chance to handle one in person (better yet shoot it!).

In any case, manufacturer and especially retailer published weights are often wrong. For an 1892 with a standard round profile barrel, the 16" full stock rifle should be about 6lbs or just under (though the takedown version will be a bit heavier). Or maybe you were looking at one of the other Chiappa rifles built on a heavier action (like the 1886).
 
Definitely looking for a full stock, in wood. No need for take down. Any reason to take a large D lever? My 1894 Winchester feels fine…
 
Richard35 said:
Definitely looking for a full stock, in wood. No need for take down. Any reason to take a large D lever? My 1894 Winchester feels fine…
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While the big loop leaves room for a heavy winter glove, I've seen folks comment that the large loop slows down the cycling time.

Give the choice/option, I'd avoid the large loop.
 
Jay said:
While the big loop leaves room for a heavy winter glove, I've seen folks comment that the large loop slows down the cycling time.

Give the choice/option, I'd avoid the large loop.
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I keep one large and one regular for my Marlin 336. I do like the larger for winter hikes but agree, if you don't need it stick to the regular loop, much better cycling.

I vote 16" for barrel length, 16"-20" is the sweet spot for me.
 
I have the Alaskan in 357 and 44, both 12 in. Super fun rifles. They are surprisingly heavy and the 12in barrel places the centre if gravity way aft. Also it's a bit weird that it separates into 2 vastly unequal pieces. Although the 16in may offer better handling, I love the 12in barrel and honestly wouldn't have purchased them otherwise.
 
Richard35 said:
Definitely looking for a full stock, in wood. No need for take down. Any reason to take a large D lever? My 1894 Winchester feels fine…
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Good choices all around. Have you decided on which chambering?

As others have said, the only practical advantage for the large loop is for fitting your hand in with thick gloves/mitts on. The rest of the time it's a disadvantage (unless you just like the look). Also, since you're comparing to a traditional Win 1894, note that there is a pretty big difference in feel between the pistol grip on the Chiappa Wildlands models vs. the straight grip that you're familiar with on your 1894.
 
Yes, will be buying a 16’’ in 44 or 357. I would certainly consider a Winchester 92 or 94 in 16’’, in any available calibre, 44-40, 30-30… they aren’t many on the market.
I prefer the straight grip on a lever, just like my old 1894s. I thought of shortening one of my 94s but not sure its legal to go under 18.5’’ and since I only own pre-64s it might also be sin to modify an old classic.
alpining said:
Good choices all around. Have you decided on which chambering?

As others have said, the only practical advantage for the large loop is for fitting your hand in with thick gloves/mitts on. The rest of the time it's a disadvantage (unless you just like the look). Also, since you're comparing to a traditional Win 1894, note that there is a pretty big difference in feel between the pistol grip on the Chiappa Wildlands models vs. the straight grip that you're familiar with on your 1894.
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1892s are only available in pistol chamberings, the action is too short for 30-30, for example.

You're right that the new (Miroku) Winchesters are hard to find, but there seems to be a more or less steady trickle. Just off the top of my head, Calgary Shooting Center has some, and Bashaw Sports. The base model units are actually very well priced at around $1300.

For a lever action, you can have the barrel shortened to 18" - Yes, probably better to buy a new 16".
 
Richard35 said:
Yes, will be buying a 16’’ in 44 or 357. I would certainly consider a Winchester 92 or 94 in 16’’, in any available calibre, 44-40, 30-30… they aren’t many on the market.
I prefer the straight grip on a lever, just like my old 1894s. I thought of shortening one of my 94s but not sure its legal to go under 18.5’’ and since I only own pre-64s it might also be sin to modify an old classic.
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You would have to get a smith to make you a new barrel, not allowed to cut down an existing barrel to less than 18". Would also require modifying the magazine tube if its a full length mag tube (which most 94s are aren't they?).

I have no idea when more might become available, but Wolverine was selling a lever gun that is basically a rebranded Rossi for a very fair price last year, it has straight grip like you want and 16.5" barrel, but it has plastic stock and a tactical style forend that might not be to your liking:
https://www.canadiangunnutz.com/forum/showthread.php/2250262-Citadel-Levtac-92-rifles-in-stock
 
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I have the Alaskan in 357 with a 12" barrel. I can hit an 8" gong at 100 yards with no issue with a micro red dot off hand.

I had a Winchester trapper deluxe with a 16" barrel that I regret selling. That gun had a much better finish than the chiappa, the action was was smoother, and the lever had less slop in it.

I also had a more basic Winchester 1892 short rifle, the quality was just as good as the deluxe, but a little bit more basic, rounded barrel, blued finish.

But I love my chiappa, it's probably my favorite gun, and one I'll never sell.
 
I have a beautiful Rossi / PUMA .357 in 20"..love the rifle, well balanced, but really considering trading for a 16 or a 12", even though I really like this rifle, a 12" is appealing to throw in the Canoe & EZ to pack/sling/take on my trekking/outdoor bush adventures.
Getting bored of slugging around the {heavy} 12 gauge pump, & .357 feels as equally RE: Predator etc. protection here.

The 16", other than mag capacity, I think is the perfect balance..but 12" w/Full butt stock} is tempting, Esp/ if you want a Bush/Camp/Hiking rifle. Had one years ago, & miss it.
 
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38/357 are hard to beat for fun plinking ( 22 LR is cheeper). 44 mag is more a defense/ hunting caliber( hand loading is way cheaper).barrel length wasn't much of a concern for me but you will have a better sight picture with longer barrel.pistol calibers don't gain that much with factory loads.
 
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