Chiappa’s new 1886 Kodiak lever-action rifle
The Model 1886 represented for Winchester an important goal. The general requirement was for more and more powerful cartridges and the company had long been trying to manufacture a lever-action rifle which could chamber the very popular and very powerful calibre .45-70 Government.
The Model 1886 was born from the project of genial Mr Browning, who fruitfully cooperated with Winchester for about 30 years. This rifle, whose characteristic was an extremely solid locking-block action, far exceeded Winchester’s expectations. It could chamber not only the .45-70, but bigger calibers such as .45-90, .50-110 Express Buffalo and in 1903, even the smokeless powder, high-velocity .33WCF. We can say that Model 1886 was the real American Express rifle. This term was coined at the beginning of the 19th century to indicate a rifle or ammunition whose velocity was superior to average; the superior performance was attained through light cartridges - usually hollow-point - loaded with a high quantity of black powder.
Chiappa Firearms has been distributing its replica of the Model 1886 since the middle of 2010. The success of this product has been huge especially in the USA market, which pursues a flawless performance (it is employed in the traditional hunting of big game), but is at the same time very demanding on historical accuracy. Chiappa Firearms’ Model 1886 is an extremely faithful replica; it is actually the only one that guarantees 100% of interchangeability with the original firearm.
Chiappa Firearms has now developed a modern version of the Model 1886, prepared especially for hunting, and it is available from the beginning of 2011. The Kodiak’s look is sporting yet elegant, offering an outstanding match of comfort and aesthetical value.
The stock and fore-end are made of wood with ‘soft touch’ paint, a layer of matte-black rubber, which gives the surface a firm and pleasant grip; the rubber buttplate is particularly soft. The receiver, bolt, lever, barrel and all visible metal parts are protected by corrosion through a special matte-chrome treatment called ‘hard chrome’, which, besides being absolutely elegant, remains unaltered through time. The semi-octagonal, 22" barrel is manufactured by bottom rifling. The short magazine holds four shots, plus one in the receiver.
Another special feature to 1886 Kodiak is the Skinner sights, which are particularly popular and well appreciated in the USA. Manufactured by an artisan and produced in small series, the Skinner sights allow for an excellent precision, plus a functional, aesthetical appearance and a durability that can stand any comparison and make for the perfect match to a hunting rifle.
Chiappa firearms are distributed in Australia by Nioa. For more information, visit www.nioa.net.au
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