Description
The EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Gun 12 Gauge is a Pietta-built reproduction of the side by side hammer guns that rode shotgun on Old West stagecoaches. EMF model SGP78BL1220 pairs 20 inch blued barrels with external working hammers and a walnut stock.
EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Gun 12 Gauge Overview
Coach guns earned their name guarding strongboxes and passengers, and their short barrels made them fast to bring into action from a wagon seat. This Hartford model keeps that layout: two barrels side by side, a break action that opens to load, and visible hammers you cock by thumb before each shot. The 20 inch barrels keep the gun short and handy, the walnut stock gives it a period look, and the blued metal finish suits the style. Chambers are 2.75 inches, so stick with standard-length shells rather than 3 inch magnums.
Working Hammers
Each barrel has its own external hammer, so you can see at a glance whether the gun is cocked. To shoot, thumb back the hammer for the barrel you intend to fire. To decock safely, control the hammer with your thumb while pressing the trigger and lower it gently. Practice this with snap caps until it is second nature, because a slipped hammer on a loaded gun is dangerous.
Chokes and Loads
The barrels do not use interchangeable choke tubes, so the chokes are fixed. Short coach gun barrels are typically bored fairly open, which suits close shots, cowboy action targets and home defense distances. Light 2.75 inch target loads are pleasant to shoot; full-power buckshot in a light, short side by side with no recoil pad will kick hard.
Choosing Shells
Pattern your shotgun with several loads at the distances you expect to shoot, since every barrel and choke combination behaves differently. Use the right shot size for your game or target and follow local rules on nontoxic shot where required.
Fit and Mounting
A shotgun that fits lets you look straight down the rib with your cheek firmly on the stock. Practice smooth gun mounts at home with an unloaded gun to build consistency in the field and on the clay range.
Care and Maintenance
Clean the bore, chokes and action after each outing, especially after rain or salt water. A light coat of oil on metal parts and a clean action keep the shotgun running reliably for years.
Cowboy Action and Ownership
Side by side hammer guns are a staple of cowboy action shooting, where quick reloads matter more than capacity. Expect stiffer hammers and action when new. The distributor flagged this model as a closeout, so availability may be limited once current stock sells.
Choke Selection
Tighter chokes such as modified and full extend effective range for waterfowl and turkey, while improved cylinder and skeet chokes open patterns for close birds and clay targets. Always use chokes rated for the shot you are shooting, especially steel.
Recommended Accessories
Eye and ear protection, a cleaning kit, extra choke tubes and a padded case are smart additions. Hunters may want a sling, while clay shooters often add a shell pouch and recoil reducing pad.
Ordering From MAG5
Choose your local FFL dealer at checkout and we ship directly to them. Once the firearm arrives, your dealer runs the background check and completes the transfer paperwork. Most dealers charge a modest transfer fee, so ask about it before you order.
State Laws
Firearm, magazine and transfer laws vary by state. Check your local laws and confirm your receiving dealer can complete the transfer.
Specifications
- Model: SGP78BL1220
- Maker: Pietta, imported by EMF
- Gauge: 12, 2.75 in. chambers
- Action: Side by side break action, external hammers
- Barrels: 20 in., blued
- Chokes: Fixed (no tubes)
- Stock: Walnut, field style
- Recoil pad: None
- UPC: 641996000300
Before You Buy
Federal law requires this shotgun to ship to a licensed FFL dealer, where you will complete the background check and transfer. You must be 18 or older to purchase. Verify local laws before ordering.
Who It Is For
The EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Gun 12 Gauge is a great fit for cowboy action shooters, Old West collectors, and anyone who wants a classic short double for the ranch or home.
Buy the EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Gun 12 Gauge at MAG5 Firearms
MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the EMF 1878 Hartford Coach Gun 12 Gauge online and ship it to your local FFL dealer, or browse our full selection of firearms for more shotguns. For factory details, visit EMF Company.
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