Uncovering the Legacy of the Coach Gun: A Professional Examination of a Forgotten Weapon

The Coach Gun captures the imagination of firearms enthusiasts and historians alike. Designed for stagecoach drivers in the 19th century, this double-barrel shotgun is steeped in history and craftsmanship. In an era dominated by tactical rifles and modern firearms, the Coach Gun persists as a captivating symbol of yesteryear. This post examines its history, design features, cultural impact, and current resurgence.

The Historical Context of the Coach Gun

To understand the significance of the Coach Gun, we must return to the 1800s when stagecoaches were vital for travel and commerce. Not only did these wagons transport people and mail, but they also became targets for bandits.

To protect themselves, stagecoach drivers relied on a dependable shotgun, leading to the development of the Coach Gun. Commonly featuring short barrels—typically 12 or 20 gauge—this weapon was crafted for rapid handling and effectiveness at close range.

Many historical models of the Coach Gun were adorned with detailed engravings and exquisite woodwork, showcasing the craftsmanship of the gunsmiths of that time. This blend of functionality and artistry makes the Coach Gun a remarkable piece of history.

Design Features

The design of the Coach Gun sets it apart. Most models are side-by-side, offering two shots before needing to reload.

Barrel Length

A key design element is its barrel length, which is usually between 18 and 20 inches. This length provides a balance between ease of use and stopping power, making it suitable for both tight quarters and quick draws. For example, the 18-inch barrel is ideal for home defense, allowing maximum maneuverability in confined spaces.

Shotgun Gauge

The Coach Gun typically comes in 12-gauge and 20-gauge variants. The 12-gauge option is particularly popular due to its versatility. With over 400 types of shotgun shells available, shooters can choose anything from birdshot for hunting to slugs for self-defense.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Materials matter, too. Coach Guns are often made with walnut stocks and blued steel barrels. Historical models reveal the dedication of their makers, adding both beauty and functionality to the guns, which enhances their collectability.

Factory-Made Coach Guns

Some companies manufacture short double-barreled shotguns specifically for use as a “coach gun.” These are typically 18–20 inch barrels, side-by-side (SxS), often styled after the Old West stagecoach guard guns.

Well-known manufacturers:

• Stoeger (Brazil, now owned by Beretta Group) → Stoeger Coach Gun (12ga, 20ga)

• Baikal / IZH (Russia, marketed as Remington Spartan in the US) → Baikal IZH-43 Coach Gun

• Norinco (China) → Chinese-made SxS “coach-style” shotguns, very common in the US

• Cimarron Firearms (USA, imports) → Cimarron 1878 Coach Gun (replica)

• Taylor’s & Company (USA, imports) → Old West coach gun replicas

• Chiappa (Italy) → Chiappa Coach Gun (side-by-side, modern and replica models)

These are sold as factory short-barreled shotguns (usually legal minimum length in each market, e.g. 18" in the US).

Cut-Down Guns (Traditional “Coach Guns”)

Historically, in the 19th century, “coach guns” were often just cut-down double-barrel hunting shotguns to make them handier in close quarters (like on stagecoaches or wagons).

• Example: A standard 28–32 inch double-barrel would be shortened to 18–20 inches.

• Many “coach guns” seen in the Wild West weren’t factory-built short guns but cut-down field shotguns.

• In the US, the name “coach gun” usually refers to short, factory-produced, SxS shotguns.

• In Europe/India, most “coach guns” encountered are cut-down versions of older DBBL (double-barrel) hunting guns, since factory coach models were rare outside the American market.

So, both exist:

• Factory-made coach guns (Stoeger, Baikal, Norinco, Chiappa, Cimarron, Taylor’s).

• Homemade/modified coach guns (cut-down hunting shotguns).

Cultural Significance

The Coach Gun has evolved beyond its original purpose as a stagecoach defensive weapon. Over the years, it has ingrained itself in American folklore and culture.

In films and literature, the image of a cowboy wielding a Coach Gun often symbolizes rugged individualism and frontier justice. For instance, in many Western movies from the 1950s and 1960s, these shotguns were featured prominently in scenes depicting showdowns or defending against bandit attacks.

Popular Factory-Made Coach Guns – Comparison Guide

Brand / Model	Origin	Gauges	Barrel Length	Features	Notes
Stoeger Coach Gun	Brazil (Beretta Group)	12, 20	18.5" or 20"	Side-by-side, exposed hammers (Supreme model) or internal hammers, single or double triggers	Most popular modern coach gun, reliable and affordable
Baikal IZH-43 / Remington Spartan	Russia	12, 20	20"	Stout build, double trigger, simple extractor	Imported as Remington Spartan in US; rugged, heavy
Norinco Coach Gun	China	12	20"	Side-by-side, double triggers, plain finish	Budget-friendly, widely sold in US
Cimarron 1878 Coach Gun	Italy (imported to US)	12	20"	Old West style, exposed hammers, authentic replica	Popular with cowboy action shooters
Taylor’s & Co. 1878 Coach Gun	Italy (by Pedersoli/Chiappa, imported)	12	20"	Replica, exposed hammers, case-hardened look	Similar to Cimarron; marketed for cowboy action
Chiappa Coach Gun	Italy	12, 20	20"	Modern production, SxS with hammer or hammerless options	Higher finish quality than Norinco
Pedersoli Wyatt Earp / 1878 Replica	Italy	12	20"	Exposed hammers, walnut stock	Premium replica with historical styling

Exploring the Coach Gun's Rich History

The Coach Gun, often seen as a relic, embodies much more than just practicality; it offers a narrative rich with stories of adventure, protection, and fine craftsmanship. Its legacy as both a collector's item and a functioning firearm solidifies its place in American history.

Key Notes

• US Market Focus → Most coach guns are aimed at the cowboy action shooting (CAS) crowd.

• Practical Use → In modern defense/hunting, they’re less common than pumps/semis, but they remain iconic for their simplicity and intimidation factor.

• Legal Lengths → Factory coach guns are usually 18.5–20" to stay legal in most countries. Shorter barrels = require special permits