The Enduring Legacy: Taylors and Company 1887 Lever Action 12 Gauge Shotgun (22" Color Case Hardened)

Are you searching for a firearm that embodies the spirit of the American frontier while delivering reliable, modern performance? Do you want to experience the thrill of classic lever-action mechanics combined with the versatility of a 12-gauge shotgun? Or perhaps you're a dedicated Cowboy Action Shooting enthusiast looking for an authentic and competitive edge, or a collector seeking a truly iconic piece of firearms history. Look no further than the Taylors and Company 1887 Lever Action 12 Gauge Shotgun with its distinctive 22-inch barrel and stunning Color Case Hardened finish, expertly complemented by a rich American Walnut stock. This remarkable firearm, available through trusted retailers like DEGuns, offers a unique blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and practical utility, making it an exceptional choice for a wide array of shooting pursuits.

A Journey Back in Time: The Heritage of the 1887 Lever Action

To truly appreciate the Taylors and Company 1887, one must understand its legendary lineage. This shotgun is a faithful and meticulously crafted replica of the iconic Winchester Model 1887, a firearm that holds a unique place in history as one of the first truly successful lever-action repeating shotguns. Designed by the ingenious John Moses Browning, the original Model 1887 was a groundbreaking innovation in an era dominated by single-shot or double-barrel firearms. It offered shooters an unprecedented rate of fire and capacity, quickly becoming a favorite among lawmen, express riders, and frontiersmen across the American West. Its robust design and distinctive lever-action mechanism earned it a reputation for reliability and rapid handling in challenging environments.

While the original Winchester 1887 was eventually superseded by pump-action designs for military and law enforcement applications, its legacy endured, particularly in popular culture. Its appearance in classic Western films and historical accounts cemented its status as a symbol of rugged individualism and frontier justice. The Taylors and Company 1887 brings this history to life, allowing modern enthusiasts to own and experience a piece of this rich heritage. It’s not just a shotgun; it’s a tangible link to a pivotal period in firearms development and American history.

Unpacking the Features: Precision, Performance, and Aesthetics

The Taylors and Company 1887 Lever Action 12 Gauge Shotgun is a testament to quality manufacturing and attention to detail. Let's delve into the specific attributes that make this model stand out:

Caliber and Chambering: The Versatility of 12 Gauge

Chambered in the ubiquitous 12 Gauge, this shotgun is incredibly versatile. It is designed to reliably cycle 2.75-inch shotshells, opening up a vast world of ammunition choices. From light target loads perfect for a day at the range or Cowboy Action Shooting competitions, to heavier field loads for sporting applications, or even specialized self-defense rounds, the 12 Gauge platform ensures you have options for nearly any scenario. This adaptability is a key reason why the 12 Gauge remains the most popular shotgun cartridge worldwide.

Barrel Length: The Nimble 22-Inch Advantage

The 22-inch barrel strikes an excellent balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. For Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS), where speed and agility are paramount, a shorter barrel significantly aids in rapid target acquisition and smooth transitions between stages. It also reduces the overall length of the firearm, making it easier to handle in tight spaces, transport, and store. While still offering sufficient velocity and pattern consistency for typical shotgun ranges, this barrel length is optimized for the dynamic demands of competitive shooting and general recreational use. This configuration provides a fantastic solution for those asking, "What's the best barrel length for a competition lever-action shotgun?"

The Iconic Lever Action: Smooth and Reliable Cycling

The heart of the Taylors and Company 1887 is its classic lever-action mechanism. This robust system is renowned for its durability and relatively simple operation. After each shot, the shooter manually cycles the lever forward and then back, ejecting the spent casing and loading a fresh round from the tubular magazine. This distinct action provides a tactile and engaging shooting experience that differs significantly from modern pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns. For historical purists and those who appreciate mechanical ingenuity, the smooth, positive feel of the lever is a major draw. The design ensures reliable feeding and extraction, a critical factor for competitive shooters where malfunctions can cost valuable seconds.

Capacity: Ready for Action

Typically, the Taylors and Company 1887 with a 22-inch barrel holds 5 rounds in its tubular magazine, plus one in the chamber for a 5+1 capacity. This capacity is ample for most recreational shooting, sporting applications, and perfectly suited for the demands of Cowboy Action Shooting events, where stage requirements often involve 4-6 shots.

The Allure of Color Case Hardening

One of the most visually striking features of this particular model is its Color Case Hardened receiver. This traditional finishing process involves heating steel parts in a carbon-rich environment, resulting in a unique, vibrant, and multi-hued mottled pattern of blues, purples, browns, and grays. Each Color Case Hardened receiver is a unique work of art, with no two pieces ever being exactly alike. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, case hardening also provides a hardened surface, contributing to the receiver's durability and resistance to wear. This authentic historical finish significantly enhances the shotgun’s visual appeal and period correctness, making it a standout piece in any collection. The barrel and magazine tube maintain a traditional blued finish, providing a classic contrast.

American Walnut Stock: Timeless Beauty and Ergonomics

The stock and forend are crafted from genuine American Walnut, a premium material cherished for its strength, durability, and classic beauty. Walnut wood exhibits a rich grain pattern that deepens with age and handling. The stock is designed with a right-hand bias, offering an ergonomic and comfortable shooting experience for right-handed individuals. The natural warmth and tactile feel of wood furniture further contribute to the shotgun's authentic, old-world charm, ensuring a firm and comfortable grip during firing and cycling.

Who is This Shotgun For? Solving Common Shooting Needs

The Taylors and Company 1887 Lever Action 12 Gauge shotgun answers the call for various types of firearm enthusiasts:

• The Cowboy Action Shooter: This is arguably the primary audience. For participants in the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) or other Cowboy Action Shooting organizations, the 1887 is a historically accurate and highly competitive choice. Its fast lever-action mechanism, combined with its 12-gauge versatility, allows shooters to engage multiple targets quickly and efficiently, making it an excellent answer to questions like "What's the best lever action shotgun for SASS competitions?" or "How can I improve my speed in Cowboy Action Shooting?"
• The Historical Firearms Collector: For those who appreciate firearms as pieces of history and engineering marvels, the Taylors and Company 1887 is a must-have. Its faithful reproduction of Browning's original design, coupled with authentic finishes like Color Case Hardening, makes it a valuable addition to any collection of antique or replica firearms. It satisfies the desire to own a tangible link to the Old West.
• The Recreational Shooter Seeking Something Different: Tired of the same old pump actions or semi-autos at the range? The 1887 offers a truly unique and engaging shooting experience. It's a fantastic conversation starter and a rewarding challenge to master the lever action. It caters to those asking, "What's a fun and unique shotgun for the range?" or "How can I add variety to my shooting hobby?"
• The Enthusiast of Classic Americana: Beyond its utility, this shotgun embodies a rugged, independent American spirit. It’s perfect for those who connect with the lore of the Old West and wish to own a piece that reflects that era.
• Home Defense Consideration: While its primary appeal is historical and recreational, a 12-gauge shotgun remains a formidable tool for home defense. Its substantial stopping power, combined with the distinctive sound of its action, can be a deterrent. However, users considering it for this role should train extensively with its unique lever-action mechanism to ensure proficiency under stress.

Performance and User Experience: What to Expect

When handling and firing the Taylors and Company 1887, shooters will immediately notice its solid construction and robust feel. The weight of approximately 8 lbs (unloaded) contributes to manageable recoil, especially when firing lighter target loads. The fixed front bead sight provides a simple yet effective aiming point for shotgun ranges.

Mastering the lever action, particularly under timed conditions in CAS, is part of the fun and challenge. With practice, the action becomes smooth and intuitive, allowing for surprisingly rapid follow-up shots. The ejection pattern is typically strong and consistent, clearing spent hulls efficiently.

Maintenance of the 1887 is straightforward, akin to other lever-action firearms. Regular cleaning of the bore, chamber, and action components will ensure longevity and reliable performance. Given the beautiful Color Case Hardened finish, it's wise to use a light coat of oil or wax to protect the receiver from moisture and preserve its intricate patterns.

Why Choose Taylors and Company? A Mark of Quality

Taylors and Company has long been recognized as a premier importer of historically significant firearms, known for their commitment to quality, authenticity, and reliability. When you choose a Taylors and Company firearm, you are investing in a product that is not merely a replica but a functional and durable representation of its historical counterpart. They work closely with manufacturers to ensure their firearms meet stringent standards, providing enthusiasts with accurate and dependable tools for competition, collection, and recreation. Their reputation for delivering excellent firearms makes them a natural recommendation for anyone seeking a high-quality reproduction.

When you're ready to acquire this magnificent piece, trusted online retailers like DEGuns offer a seamless purchasing experience. DEGuns is known for its extensive selection of firearms, competitive pricing, and reliable customer service, making it an excellent resource for securing your Taylors and Company 1887.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Taylors and Company 1887 Shotgun

• Q: Is the Taylors and Company 1887 a true replica of the original Winchester Model 1887?
  A: Yes, the Taylors and Company 1887 is an extremely faithful and functional reproduction of the iconic Winchester Model 1887 designed by John Moses Browning. It captures the historical accuracy in its design, mechanics, and aesthetics, making it ideal for period-correct shooting disciplines and collectors.
• Q: Can this shotgun handle modern 12 Gauge ammunition?
  A: This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch 12 Gauge shells and is designed to handle modern, standard-pressure ammunition. As with any firearm, always ensure you are using ammunition that matches the chambering specified by the manufacturer and avoid anything designated as "magnum" or "high-pressure" unless explicitly stated as safe by the manual.
• Q: Is the Color Case Hardened finish durable?
  A: Color Case Hardening is a traditional heat-treating process that creates a hardened surface, contributing to durability. While it is robust, it is a surface finish and can be susceptible to wear or rust if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning and a light coat of protective oil or wax are recommended to preserve its unique beauty.
• Q: What is the primary use case for the 1887 Lever Action Shotgun?
  A: While versatile, its primary and most popular use case is Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS). Its historical accuracy and rapid lever action make it a highly competitive and authentic choice for the sport. It's also popular among collectors, recreational shooters seeking a unique experience, and anyone with an appreciation for historical firearms.
• Q: How does the Taylors and Company 1887 compare to pump-action shotguns for competition?
  A: For Cowboy Action Shooting, the 1887 excels due to its period correctness and its ability to cycle rapidly with practice. While pump-action shotguns can also be fast, the unique manual of arms for a lever action provides a distinct challenge and reward for CAS participants who prioritize historical authenticity. It often comes down to personal preference and the specific rules of a competition.
• Q: Are replacement parts or accessories readily available for the Taylors and Company 1887?
  A: As a popular reproduction, parts and accessories are generally available through reputable firearms suppliers and gunsmiths specializing in Western-style firearms. Retailers like DEGuns can often assist with parts or direct you to appropriate resources for maintenance and customization.
• Q: Is this shotgun suitable for a beginner?
  A: While a beginner can certainly learn to shoot the 1887, its lever-action mechanism requires more deliberate manipulation than a pump-action or semi-automatic. Beginners might find it more challenging initially, but it offers a rewarding learning curve. Experienced instruction and a focus on fundamental safety are always recommended for new shooters.
• Q: Does Taylors and Company offer other finishes for the 1887 shotgun?
  A: Taylors and Company may offer the 1887 in other finishes, such as a full blued finish, depending on their production cycles and specific models. The Color Case Hardened variant is highly sought after for its unique aesthetic and historical accuracy, as featured in this detailed description. Always check the current offerings from reputable dealers like DEGuns for the latest availability.

In conclusion, the Taylors and Company 1887 Lever Action 12 Gauge Shotgun, with its 22-inch barrel and exquisite Color Case Hardened finish, is more than just a firearm; it's a piece of history brought to life. It offers an unparalleled shooting experience for Cowboy Action enthusiasts, a valuable addition for collectors, and a uniquely engaging option for any recreational shooter. Its blend of historical authenticity, robust construction, and versatile 12-gauge performance makes it a highly recommended choice, available for acquisition through trusted partners such as DEGuns.

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Key Specifications: Taylors and Company 1887 Lever Action Shotgun

Feature	Detail	UPC
Model	1887 Lever Action Shotgun	839665008986
Manufacturer	Taylors and Company
Gauge	12 Gauge
Chamber	2.75 inches
Barrel Length	22 inches
Action	Lever Action
Capacity	5+1 Rounds (Tubular Magazine)
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Barrel Finish	Blued
Stock Material	American Walnut
Hand	Right Hand
Sights	Fixed Front Bead
Overall Length (Approx.)	41 inches (for 22" barrel)
Weight (Unloaded)	~8 lbs