Chiappa Firearms 500145 Little Badger 17 HMR 1rd, 16.50″ Blued Steel Threaded Barrel/ Black Underfolding Stock, Right Hand

Chiappa Firearms 500145 Little Badger .17 HMR – The Ultimate Packable Survival Rifle

Here we’ve got the Chiappa Firearms 500145 Little Badger .17 HMR 1rd, 16.50″ Blued Steel Threaded Barrel/ Black Underfolding Stock, Right Hand – a rifle that folds down to just 17 inches and weighs barely over three pounds. It’s a break-open single shot that tucks into its own pack, making it the perfect grab-and-go gun for a day hike, a truck box, or a bug-out bag. I’ve handled a lot of compact rifles over the years, and this one genuinely surprises people with how solid it feels for its size.

Manufacturer	Chiappa Firearms
Model	Little Badger (500145)
Material	Blued steel barrel, wire frame stock (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.17 HMR ammunition
Finish	Blued
Weight	Approximately 3.4 lbs (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Ultra-Compact Folding Design – When you open the action and fold the stock, the whole rifle measures just 17 inches. Why it matters: That means it fits in a backpack, a saddlebag, or even a large jacket pocket. You can take it anywhere without a bulky case.
• Threaded Blued Steel Barrel (1/2×28) – The 16.5-inch barrel comes threaded for standard muzzle devices. Why it matters: You can easily attach a suppressor or a muzzle brake to reduce noise or recoil. It’s a big plus for hunters who want to keep things quiet.
• Integrated 12-Round Shell Holder – The polymer stock back holds a dozen .17 HMR cartridges right where you need them. Why it matters: No fumbling for loose ammo in your pocket. Everything stays organized and accessible, even in a hurry.
• Picatinny Rails on All Four Sides – There are rails top, bottom, and both sides just forward of the receiver. Why it matters: You can mount a red dot, a flashlight, a bipod, or a laser without any adapters. This rifle adapts to whatever you need it to do.
• M1-Style Adjustable Front Sight – It comes with a simple, rugged front sight that you can adjust for windage. Why it matters: You get a reliable sight picture right out of the box, no extra optics required. Perfect for quick shots at small game.

Who It’s For

This rifle is built for hikers, backpackers, preppers, and anyone who wants a lightweight survival tool. If you spend time in the backcountry and need something that won’t weigh you down, the Little Badger is a natural fit. It’s also a great first rifle for a new shooter who wants something simple and easy to carry. Because it’s a single shot, it encourages careful aim and patience – a good lesson for anyone learning marksmanship.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Incredibly lightweight and portable – you’ll forget it’s in your pack until you need it.
• Pro: Threaded barrel makes suppressor use easy, which is rare in this price range.
• Pro: The included shell holder keeps ammo organized and ready.
• Con: The wire stock can feel a bit flimsy compared to a full synthetic or wood stock. It’s sturdy enough for its purpose, but if you plan to shoot from a bench all day, you might want a more traditional setup.

Comparison: Chiappa Little Badger vs. Competitors

Feature	Chiappa Little Badger .17 HMR	Geissele Automatics Super Duty	Timney Triggers Competition Rifle
Action Type	Break-open, single shot	Semi-automatic	Bolt action
Weight	~3.4 lbs	~6.5 lbs	~8 lbs
Folded Length	17 inches	N/A (fixed)	N/A (fixed)
Barrel Threading	Yes (1/2×28)	Yes	No
Best For	Backpacking, survival	Duty, competition	Precision benchrest
Price	~$254	~$1,800	~$1,200

As you can see, the Little Badger is in a completely different category – it’s built for portability and simplicity, not for high-volume shooting. The Geissele and Timney are excellent rifles, but they cost five to seven times as much and weigh twice as much. If you need a compact survival rifle, the Chiappa is the smart choice.

FAQ

What kind of optics can I mount on the Little Badger?

The top Picatinny rail accepts any standard red dot, reflex sight, or small scope. Because the rifle is so light, I recommend a compact optic like a micro red dot to keep the balance right.

Is the Little Badger legal to carry in a backpack?

Yes, as long as you follow local laws regarding firearms in public. The folded length of 17 inches makes it easy to store, but always check your state and local regulations about concealed carry and firearm transport.

Can I use .17 HMR ammo for hunting?

Absolutely. .17 HMR is excellent for small game like squirrels, rabbits, and prairie dogs. It’s also effective for pest control. Just make sure you’re within ethical range – typically under 150 yards.

Does the rifle come with a case?

Yes, it includes a pack that the rifle fits into when folded. It’s a simple nylon carry bag with a shoulder strap. Not a hard case, but perfect for throwing in your gear.

How do I clean the Little Badger?

Standard break-open rifle cleaning. Open the action, remove the barrel if needed (it’s simple), and run a bore brush and patches through the barrel. The wire stock wipes clean easily. Per Chiappa’s manual, avoid getting solvent on the polymer shell holder.

Ready to Pack This Little Badger?

If you’re looking for a lightweight survival rifle that won’t break the bank, the Chiappa Firearms 500145 Little Badger .17 HMR is ready to ship. Browse more single shot rifles or check out our survival gear. Need a suppressor to go with that threaded barrel? See our suppressor selection.

✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout

Last updated: April 2026