The video focuses on the Cimarron 1887 Terminator 12 gauge lever action shotgun, a modern rendition of the classic 1887 design often associated with the Winchester name. The host notes that this shotgun has become an iconic piece in popular culture, appearing in numerous movies and video games. Examples mentioned include its use in Terminator, The Mummy with Brendan Fraser, Ghost Rider with Nicolas Cage, and as a powerful akimbo option in Call of Duty. The goal of the video is outlined as covering the technical specifications, then walking through the shotgun from muzzle to buttstock to highlight details not always listed on spec sheets, followed by final impressions after handling the gun.
The Cimarron 1887 Terminator shown has a 20-inch barrel, with other barrel lengths such as 18 and 26 inches also available. Capacity is 5 rounds in the tube plus one in the chamber. The shotgun features walnut furniture and a blued receiver, giving it a traditional steel-and-wood construction. It is chambered for 2.75-inch 12 gauge shells. The design is credited to John Moses Browning, who is also known for the Browning Hi-Power pistol and many other influential firearm designs. The host emphasizes that this lever action shotgun represents another example of Browning’s mechanical work, and that it functions smoothly in use despite the relatively sparse published technical data from Cimarron.
Attention turns to the lever action mechanism, which has a noticeable spring-assisted movement. With the hammer cocked, the lever springs out more prominently; with the hammer down, it still pops out slightly. This spring tension helps the shooter cycle the action quickly and smoothly. The moving components are largely concentrated in the receiver and lever assembly, which pivot on a pin so that the entire front portion of the action travels as the lever is worked. As the lever is pulled back, the action drops slightly into the receiver and then moves rearward, while an elevator lifts a shell from the magazine tube into position. The trigger sits in a cutout within the moving assembly but remains stationary as the rest of the mechanism cycles, an unusual and visually distinctive feature.
The hammer is shaped to flow with the rear of the receiver and can be manually cocked or carefully lowered to decock the shotgun. This allows the user to manage a loaded chamber while reducing the chance of an unintended discharge. When the lever is cycled, the top of the action opens widely, exposing the chamber and allowing the shooter to see straight through the barrel from the rear. This open-top design makes it easy to confirm whether a shell is present in the chamber or if the gun is empty. The front sight is a gold bead, and there is a small carve-out on the upper portion of the receiver that helps the shooter align the sight picture with the 12 gauge bore. Overall, the action is described as very smooth in operation.
Although the Cimarron 1887 Terminator is built from walnut and steel, it initially feels lighter than expected in the hands. To verify this, the host places the shotgun on a scale. The measured weight is approximately 7.91 pounds with the gun unloaded, close to 8 pounds once shells are added. This result is heavier than the host’s initial estimate of around 5.5 to 6 pounds, suggesting that the balance and ergonomics make it feel lighter during handling. The video notes that detailed weight information is not readily available from Cimarron’s published materials, so the on-camera measurement provides a practical reference for viewers considering how the shotgun might carry and handle.
The manufacturer lists the overall length at about 38 inches, so a measuring tape is used to confirm. Measuring from end to end, the shotgun comes in at roughly 37.25 to 37.5 inches, slightly shorter than the stated length. The host prefers this, as a shorter actual length can make storage in a bag or safe easier. The butt pad is a solid metal plate screwed into the walnut stock, with no added cushioning, contributing to a firm and traditional feel. The shotgun is described as a practical piece that could serve as a functional wall gun while still being used regularly. The video closes by inviting viewers who own any 1887-pattern shotgun, including Cimarron or Winchester versions, to share their experiences and questions in the comments, and notes an eagerness to take the Cimarron 1887 Terminator out to the range because of how good it feels in hand.
Loading...