Heritage Shotguns: Coachwhip vs. Badlander

Published on January 17, 2026
Duration: 9:00

Dustin from Guns of the West provides an expert-level comparison of the Heritage Badlander and Coachwhip shotguns. He details key differences in hammer design (internal vs. external), metal finishes (matte black vs. color case hardened), stock aesthetics, and action mechanics. Both models are presented as suitable for traditional shooting applications, with specific attention paid to their cylinder bore configurations and gauge/barrel length options.

Quick Summary

The Heritage Badlander and Coachwhip shotguns differ significantly in their hammer design, metal finishes, and barrel length options. The Badlander uses internal hammers and a matte black finish, available with 18.5" or 28" barrels. The Coachwhip features traditional external hammers, a color case hardened receiver, and is exclusively offered with an 18.5" barrel. Both are cylinder bore shotguns with a 2-round capacity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Badlander vs. Coachwhip
  2. 00:41Choke Clarification: Cylinder Bore
  3. 01:12Gauges and Barrel Lengths
  4. 02:11Hammer Design Comparison
  5. 02:41Stock and Grip Aesthetics
  6. 04:13Action and Safety Features
  7. 06:14Metal Finishes
  8. 07:13Forend and Sights

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the Heritage Badlander and Coachwhip shotguns?

The primary distinctions lie in their hammer mechanisms (Badlander has internal hammers, Coachwhip has external), metal finishes (Badlander is matte black, Coachwhip is color case hardened), and barrel length options (Badlander offers 18.5" or 28", Coachwhip is 18.5" only). Both are cylinder bore and hold two rounds.

Do the Heritage Badlander and Coachwhip shotguns have chokes?

No, neither the Heritage Badlander nor the Coachwhip shotguns feature chokes. Both models are manufactured with straight cylinder bores, which means they have a uniform barrel diameter from chamber to muzzle without any constriction for pattern control.

What are the available calibers and barrel lengths for the Heritage Badlander and Coachwhip?

The Heritage Badlander is available in 12, 20, 28 gauge, and .410 bore, with barrel options of 18.5" or 28". The Heritage Coachwhip comes in 12, 20, 16 gauge, and .410 bore, exclusively with an 18.5" barrel.

How do the stock and grip styles differ between the Heritage Badlander and Coachwhip?

Both shotguns utilize Turkish walnut stocks. The Badlander features a darker, reddish-brown finish with a checkered grip, while the Coachwhip has a lighter finish, a more rounded European-style grip, and a noticeable palm swell.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Guns of the West

View all →