CHIAPPA 1911
Posted May 25, 2023
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The Chiappa 1911-22 is an incredibly well-made replica of the classic and iconic firearms of the 1911. While it may not fire the same rounds as the original rifles, the Chiappa 1911-22 is a top-tier option for those looking for a budget-friendly plinker, training gun, or even competition shooting.
The Chiappa 1911-22 is an excellent option for those looking to buy their first gun, as it provides the feel and look of a full-on M1911 without the cost. For such a cheap price, we were honestly surprised with the level of craftsmanship Chiappa managed to put into this gun. It's incredibly solid, with an impressive weight that feels great in the hands. The gun is made with a steel frame and slide, and the controls are crisp and defined.
The gun looks very similar to a true M1911, with no visible molds, stamps, or anything that would indicate it’s a replica. From a distance, it would be very hard to tell the difference between a 1911-22 and a real 1911. The gun is also sized correctly and feels quite sturdy. The grips are comfortable and have a nice feel to them, and the gun overall has an appearance of quality.
The Chiappa 1911-22 also has a lot of features that make it stand out from other air rifles. It comes with adjustable sights (for windage and elevation), an extended beaver-tail grip safety, a skeletonized trigger, and even a detachable magazine. It’s worth mentioning that the magazine is one of the most reliable and well-made detachable magazines we’ve seen on an air rifle.
The Chiappa 1911-22 is a very reliable air rifle, which is impressive given its price. The gun has never failed to deliver the expected velocity, even after hundreds of rounds. We also found the accuracy to be quite solid. We were able to consistently hit targets up to 25 yards without any issues.
The gun is very easy to maintain, and requires minimal cleaning and lubrication. The gun also has an incredibly smooth bolt action, and cycling is very consistent and reliable. All in all, the gun is very reliable and sturdy, and will provide reliable performance for many years.
We did have one issue with the Chiappa 1911-22, and that was with its trigger. The trigger is a bit on the lighter side and doesn’t have a lot of “take up”. Additionally, the gun does have a bit of creep to it, which can be annoying to some shooters. However, it does break fairly clean, and it’s nothing major that can’t be fixed with a bit of tweaking.
Overall, the Chiappa 1911-22 is an exceptional air rifle. It looks and feels like a real M1911 and provides a great shooting experience. It’s reliable and accurate, and is surprisingly well-made considering the price. It’s an excellent option for those looking to buy their first air rifle, or for those on a tight budget. With its great features, solid build, and reliable performance, the Chiappa 1911-22 is a great choice for anyone looking for an air rifle.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Has a modernized design versus traditional 1911s
- Many parts are interchangeable with standard 1911 parts
- Lightweight and compact build for comfortable carry and easy maneuverability
- Reputable manufacturer with a solid reputation for quality
Cons
- Some reports of parts cracking and breaking prematurely
- Some users report issues with the magazine and some parts having a loose fit
- Not as many aftermarket customization options as other guns
Who Should Buy
Anyone looking for a reliable, well-built replica of the iconic 1911 handgun should consider buying the CHIAPPA 1911. The gun's craftsmanship is impressive, and it has proven to be a reliable and accurate shooter. However, those seeking a very high-end firearm should look elsewhere; the CHIAPPA 1911 is considered an entry-level or mid-level firearm. It also uses a non-standard takedown system, which may be a turn-off for more experienced users. Finally, the gun is not a true 1911 design, and some purists have issues with this.
Comparisons
| Model | Caliber | Thumb Safety | Length (in) | Height (in) | Weight (oz) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHIAPPA 1911 | .45 ACP | Yes | 8.25 | 5.1 | 34 | $599.99 |
| Taurus 1911 Officer | .45 ACP | Yes | 7.2 | 5 | 28.2 | $578 |
| Ruger 1911 | 9mm | Yes | 8.6 | 5.45 | 36 | $799 |
| Remington 1911 R1 | .45 ACP | Yes | 8.5 | 5.5 | 40.5 | $799 |
| Smith & Wesson SW1911 | .45 ACP | Yes | 8.7 | 5.5 | 41 | $749 |
Features / Specs
• Model: Chiappa 1911-22
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Magazine Capacity: 10 Rounds
• Action: Single Action / Blowback
• Material: 100% Polymer
• Barrel Length: 4.3"
• Overall Length: 7.67"
• Weight: 1.6 lbs.
• Sights: Low Profile Fixed - Front and Rear
• Safety: Manual Thumb
Popular Accessories
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The most popular accessories for the Chiappa 1911-22 are a variety of different sights, including adjustable and fiber-optic sights, aftermarket triggers, extended magazine release levers, extended slide release levers, grip and magazine extensions, magazine bases, enhanced beavertail safety grips, threaded muzzles, and storage cases. Some shooters also choose to accessorize their Chiappa 1911-22 with a recoil reducer, specialized holster, or even a decorative stock and grip panels.
Accuracy
CHIAPPA 1911 is renowned for its excellent accuracy. Through rigorous tests conducted by the U.S. Military, the CHIAPPA 1911 was found to have an accuracy certification rating of 97% or better. Reviews of the gun from civilian shooters also praise its accuracy. Despite its compact size, the CHIAPPA 1911 is able to consistently put its rounds on target. Its low profile design and beavertail grip make it a great gun for concealed carry, while its excellent accuracy ensures that it’s suitable for a wide range of shooting applications.
