RIA Trench Gun - 1897 TPAS 12ga Review

Published on April 8, 2023
Duration: 12:09

This review of the Rock Island Armory 1897 TPAS Trench Gun highlights its historical replica appeal and budget-friendly price point around $390. While praised for its smooth action and attractive Turkish walnut stock, the review details significant reliability issues, including a major jam and broken parts like a sling swivel, suggesting it may be more suited for historical appreciation than demanding use.

Quick Summary

The Rock Island Armory 1897 TPAS is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun replicating the Ithaca Model 37, featuring a 5+1 capacity and bottom ejection. While budget-friendly and aesthetically pleasing with its walnut stock, it suffers from significant reliability issues, including jams and broken parts, impacting its suitability for critical use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shooting Montage
  2. 01:41Model Identification & History (Ithaca 37 Replica)
  3. 03:10Technical Features & Capacity (5+1, Smooth Bore)
  4. 04:22Ammunition Testing (Birdshot vs. Buckshot)
  5. 05:35Action & Controls (Bottom Ejection)
  6. 07:40Reliability & Build Quality Issues (Jams, Broken Parts)
  7. 10:19Conclusion & Home Defense Suitability

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rock Island Armory 1897 TPAS shotgun?

The RIA 1897 TPAS is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun that serves as a replica of the Ithaca Model 37 trench gun. It features a 5+1 capacity, a smooth bore barrel, and a bottom-loading/ejection system, often sold at a budget-friendly price point.

What are the main reliability issues with the RIA 1897 TPAS?

During testing, the RIA 1897 TPAS experienced significant reliability problems, including a major jam that locked up the action and required force to clear. A broken front sling swivel was also noted as a defect present straight out of the box.

How does the RIA 1897 TPAS compare to the Winchester 1897?

Despite the '1897' in its name, the RIA TPAS is a replica of the Ithaca Model 37, not the Winchester 1897. Key differences include the absence of a bayonet lug on the RIA model and the presence of a rubber butt pad, distinguishing it from the original Winchester design.

Is the RIA 1897 TPAS suitable for home defense?

The reviewer suggests the RIA 1897 TPAS could be a budget-friendly option for home defense, praising its smooth action and attractive stock. However, the reported reliability issues and manufacturing defects raise concerns about its dependability in a critical situation.

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