We assessed the factor structure, correlates, and incremental validity of the Pain Appraisal Inventory in Chinese adult chronic pain samples. In an initial exploratory factor analysis sample (N = 301), the original two-component (threat, challenge) 16-item Pain Appraisal Inventory and a 10-item short form (Pain Appraisal Inventory-Short Form) were supported. Within a confirmatory factor analysis sample (N = 285), uniformly acceptable fits were observed only for the Pain Appraisal Inventory-Short Form. Furthermore, Pain Appraisal Inventory-Short Form threat and challenge subscales had significant correlations with conceptually related measures and added to prediction models for pain-related coping and adjustment, independent of other pain belief scales. Together, results indicated that the Pain Appraisal Inventory-Short Form has utility in Chinese chronic pain samples.