The EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun is a modern reproduction of the classic 19th-century double-barreled shotguns favored by stagecoach guards and lawmen. Chambered in 12-gauge with a 20-inch barrel, this side-by-side shotgun combines historical aesthetics with contemporary manufacturing, making it a popular choice among cowboy action shooters, collectors, and enthusiasts of vintage firearms.
Features
The 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun features dual external hammers and double triggers, allowing independent operation of each barrel. The 20-inch blued barrels are constructed from 4140 steel, ensuring durability and strength. The shotgun is equipped with a steel buttplate and a varnished Turkish walnut stock and forend, providing both functionality and classic appeal. The overall length of the shotgun is approximately 37 inches, with a length of pull around 14.5 inches, making it suitable for a variety of shooters.
Grip and Ergonomics
The varnished Turkish walnut stock offers a smooth and comfortable grip, with a round-knob pistol grip design that facilitates a secure hold. The shotgun’s balance and weight distribution contribute to ease of handling, allowing for quick target acquisition and maneuverability, which are essential in both competitive shooting and defensive scenarios.
Sights
The shotgun is equipped with a front gold bead sight, providing a simple yet effective aiming reference. This traditional sighting system aligns with the historical design of coach guns and is adequate for the close-range engagements typical of such firearms.
Controls
The EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun utilizes external hammers and double triggers, allowing the shooter to control each barrel independently. The break-action lever, located on top of the receiver, facilitates easy opening and closing of the action for loading and unloading. The absence of automatic ejectors means that spent shells must be manually removed, adhering to the traditional design and operation of vintage coach guns.
Safety
The external hammers serve as a primary safety feature; the shotgun cannot fire unless the hammers are manually cocked. This design reduces the risk of accidental discharge, as the firearm remains inert until the shooter is ready to fire. Additionally, the manual operation of the hammers allows the shooter to safely lower them on a loaded chamber if necessary.
Magazine Release
As a side-by-side shotgun, the 1878 Hartford Coach Gun does not utilize a magazine or magazine release. Instead, it features a break-action design that allows for the loading of two individual shells directly into the chambers.
Slide Stop
This shotgun does not have a slide stop, as it is not a pump-action firearm. The break-action mechanism serves to open the barrels for loading and unloading, and the external hammers must be manually cocked before firing.
Trigger
The double-trigger configuration allows for selective firing of each barrel. The front trigger typically fires the right barrel, while the rear trigger fires the left. This setup enables the shooter to choose which barrel to discharge first, offering versatility in situations where different chokes or loads might be used. The triggers are designed to be crisp, providing a clean break for accurate shooting.
Single-Action and Double-Action
The EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun operates in a single-action mode; the external hammers must be manually cocked before each shot. This manual cocking provides an added layer of safety and allows the shooter to prepare the firearm for firing only when ready.
Range Bag
Weighing approximately 7.16 pounds, the shotgun is relatively lightweight for a double-barreled firearm, making it convenient to transport in a range bag. Its compact 20-inch barrels and overall length of 37 inches ensure it fits comfortably in most standard shotgun cases, facilitating easy transport to and from shooting activities.
Aesthetics
The 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun boasts a classic appearance, with its blued barrels, color-casehardened hammers, and varnished Turkish walnut stock and forend. The traditional design elements, such as the external hammers and double triggers, pay homage to the coach guns of the late 19th century, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts of historical firearms.
Shooting Performance
On the range, the shotgun delivers reliable performance with manageable recoil, characteristic of 12-gauge side-by-side shotguns. The cylinder-bore barrels provide wide shot patterns, suitable for close-range targets, making it ideal for cowboy action shooting competitions and home defense scenarios. The manual cocking of the hammers and the double-trigger system allow for deliberate and controlled shooting, enhancing safety and shooter confidence.
Final Thoughts
The EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun is a faithful reproduction of a classic side-by-side shotgun, combining vintage aesthetics with modern reliability. Its robust construction, crisp double triggers, and practical 20-inch barrels make it a versatile option for cowboy action shooting, home defense, or collecting. The attention to detail in its design, from the color-casehardened hammers to the Turkish walnut stock, appeals to enthusiasts of traditional firearms. Whether you’re drawn to its historical charm or its practical applications, the 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun is a dependable and stylish addition to any firearm collection.
FAQs
What gauge is the EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun chambered in?
The shotgun is chambered in 12-gauge, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from target shooting to home defense.
How many rounds does the shotgun hold?
The EMF 1878 is a side-by-side shotgun with a two-round capacity, one for each barrel.
What is the barrel length of the Hartford Coach Shotgun?
The shotgun features 20-inch barrels, which contribute to its compact and maneuverable design.
Does the shotgun have a safety mechanism?
Yes, the external hammers serve as a manual safety. The shotgun cannot be fired unless the hammers are cocked.
What materials are used for the stock and forend?
The stock and forend are made from varnished Turkish walnut, providing durability and a classic appearance.
Is the shotgun suitable for cowboy action shooting competitions?
Yes, the 1878 Hartford Coach Shotgun is a popular choice among cowboy action shooters due to its traditional design and reliable performance.
Does the shotgun come with chokes?
No, the barrels are cylinder-bore and do not use interchangeable choke tubes, making them ideal for close-range shooting.
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