New for 2026, A Modern Interpretation of a Classic Single-Action: The Chiappa S.A. 1873 Black Thunder

Dayton, OH (May 4, 2026) – Chiappa Firearms expands its single-action revolver lineup with the introduction of the S.A. 1873 Black Thunder, a modern revolver built around one of the most recognizable handgun patterns in firearms history. Chambered in .44 Remington Magnum, the Black Thunder maintains the traditional single-action operating system that defines the 1873 pattern while incorporating several contemporary features intended to support modern shooting, hunting, and outdoor applications.

The revolver operates through a traditional single-action mechanism and uses a six-round fluted cylinder with a semi-hexagonal profile. This geometry reduces weight while maintaining structural strength and balance in the hand. A transfer bar safety system supports safe operation while preserving the familiar manual of arms expected from a single-action revolver.

Chiappa pairs this action with a tensioned barrel system comprising a steel inner barrel housed within an aluminum outer sleeve. This construction helps reduce overall weight while maintaining rigidity and consistency in the barrel assembly. The revolver will be offered in two configurations: a 5.5-inch barrel and a 7.5-inch barrel, providing shooters with options suited to both compact carry and extended sight radius preferences. 

Several modern features distinguish the Black Thunder from traditional revolver reproductions. A top-mounted Picatinny rail allows the installation of optics, enabling shooters to configure the revolver for hunting or specialized shooting applications. The revolver also features an enlarged trigger guard, improving accessibility when wearing gloves or operating it in colder environments.

The revolver is equipped with fiber-optic sights, combining a high-visibility front element with a fully adjustable fiber-optic rear sight to support rapid sight acquisition in varying lighting conditions. Ergonomics are further enhanced by an oversized Hogue® rubber grip, designed to improve recoil control when firing full-power .44 Magnum loads. The grip frame remains compatible with Ruger® Super Blackhawk-style grips, offering shooters additional customization options.

The S.A. 1873 Black Thunder maintains the strong visual character associated with classic single-action revolvers while incorporating modern mechanical and ergonomic updates. Manufactured in Italy, the revolver represents Chiappa’s continued effort to evolve historical firearm designs into platforms suited for contemporary use.

For more information, please visit ChiappaUSA.com.

SKU 340.357

SKU 340.358

SPECS: 

• 340.357 — $1,135.00
• 340.358 — $1,155.00
• Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum
• Action: Single Action
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Barrel Length:

• 5.5 in. (140 mm) — SKU 340.357
• 7.5 in. (190.5 mm) — SKU 340.358

Overall Length:

• 11 in. (280 mm) — SKU 340.357
• 13.25 in. (336.5 mm) — SKU 340.358
• Cylinder: Fluted, lightweight, semi-hexagonal profile
• Sights: Fiber-optic front / Adjustable fiber-optic rear
• Safety: Transfer bar safety system
• Grip: Hogue® oversized rubber grip
• Material: Steel, Aluminum
• Finish: Blued and anodized

About Chiappa Firearms

Established in 1958, Chiappa Firearms SRL is a fully family-owned Italian firearms manufacturer with a legacy of precision, tradition, and innovation. The company produces an extensive range of firearms, including faithful replicas of historic American weapons, muzzleloaders, classic lever-action rifles, and shotguns, .22LR pistols and rifles, alarm and air guns, and its flagship model—the revolutionary Rhino Revolver. As a fast-growing and forward-thinking company, Chiappa Firearms SRL has expanded its reach to 62 countries, competing on the global stage with some of the most recognized names in the firearms industry.

For more information, visit www.chiappausa.com.