Introduction
The Chiappa Rhino is a revolver with a radically innovative design, developed by Italian manufacturer Chiappa Firearms and first introduced in 2009. Its most remarkable feature is a barrel aligned with the lower chamber of the cylinder, rather than with the upper chamber as on traditional revolvers.
The aim of this unique architecture is to considerably reduce barrel elevation, thereby improving control, rapid return to aim and rapid-fire accuracy. With its angular lines, ergonomic stock and cutting-edge technology, the Rhino is a resolutely modern revolver, both aesthetically and functionally.
Origin and development
The Chiappa Rhino was designed by Emilio Ghisoni, the Italian engineer behind the famous Mateba Autorevolver. His aim was to reinvent the revolver for the contemporary demands of precision shooting, personal defense and tactical shooting.
The Rhino project has been developed to offer :
More controllable recoil, redirecting energy backwards rather than upwards
Advanced ergonomics inspired by modern pistols
Aesthetic modularity, with different finishes, barrel lengths and calibres
Technical data
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Calibers | .357 Magnum, .38 Special, 9 mm, .40 S&W, .44 Mag, .9×21 mm |
| Capacity | 6 shots |
| Barrel lengths | 2″, 3″, 4″, 5″, 6″ |
| Mechanism | Double-action / Single-action |
| Materials | Aluminum, stainless steel |
| Weight | Approx. 780 g to 1,200 g depending on model |
| Sights | Adjustable rear sight / Fiber-optic front sight (on some models) |
Unique design and operation
The Chiappa Rhino shoots from the barrel’s lower chamber, considerably lowering the barrel axis in relation to the shooter’s hand. Result:
Less mouth raising
Less perceived hindsight
Better rapid-fire control
The trigger mechanism is internal, with a dummy external hammer for single-action cocking only. The rest of the mechanism is encapsulated in the frame, contributing to the revolver’s futuristic silhouette.
The aeronautical aluminum frame keeps weight down despite powerful calibers.
Versions and variants
The Chiappa Rhino is available in several variants for different uses:
Rhino 20DS / 30DS: compact models with 2- or 3-inch barrels, designed for concealed porting.
Rhino 40DS / 50DS / 60DS: longer versions, ideal for sport and leisure shooting.
Rhino Match Master: version dedicated to competition shooting, with optimized trigger.
Special editions: chrome, matte black, Gold, Nebula, etc.
Some models are also available as single-acting only for markets where double-acting is restricted.
Comparison with other modern revolvers
| Model | Main caliber | Shooting axis aligned low |
|---|---|---|
| Chiappa Rhino | .357 Magnum | Yes |
| S&W Model 686 | .357 Magnum | No |
| Ruger GP100 | .357 Magnum | No |
The Chiappa Rhino remains unique in its class, with a design focused on performance and shooter comfort.
Use and target audience
The Rhino is particularly appreciated in the following environments:
Sport shooters looking for an original and effective weapon
Lovers of innovation in the world of classic weapons
Civilian users for personal defense (short models)
Professionals in certain specialized bodies (restricted use)
Its reliability, comfort and precision make it a serious option for those who want to set themselves apart from the traditional revolver.
Conclusion
The Chiappa Rhino is more than just a revolver: it’s a technical and aesthetic revolution. By lowering the firing axis and modernizing its operation, it offers reduced recoil, more stable aiming and a radically different shooting experience.
Innovative, atypical and formidably powerful, the Rhino is aimed at demanding shooters who want to push back the limits of the classic revolver, while retaining the power and simplicity of a barrel gun.
