The Chiappa Rhino 50DS Revolver .357 Mag 5” 6-Rd is a radical departure from traditional revolver design, engineered to solve the biggest complaint shooters have with magnum wheelguns: muzzle flip. By dropping the bore axis to sit directly in line with your palm, this double/single-action .357 Magnum delivers a shooting experience that feels more like a semi-auto than a revolver. The 5-inch barrel balances pointability with concealability, and the alloy frame keeps the weight manageable for all-day carry. If you’ve ever fought a snappy .357, the Rhino 50DS is the fix you didn’t know existed.
| Manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | Rhino 50DS |
| Material | Aluminum alloy frame, steel barrel and cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P ammunition |
| Finish | Matte black anodized frame, satin stainless steel barrel |
| Weight | 30.5 ounces (unloaded, per manufacturer) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Low Bore-Axis Design — By aligning the barrel with your hand instead of above it, felt muzzle rise drops by roughly 40% compared to a traditional revolver. That means faster follow-up shots and less wrist fatigue at the range.
- 5-Inch Barrel — The 5” length gives you a full sight radius for precision without turning the gun into a boat anchor. It’s a sweet spot for holster carry and range work alike.
- Walnut Grips — Medium-profile walnut panels offer a classic look and a comfortable grip that fills the hand without being bulky. They also absorb some of the .357’s bark without adding rubber tackiness.
- Six-Round Cylinder — Standard capacity for a .357 revolver, but the low bore axis means you can actually use all six rounds effectively under recoil. No more fighting to get back on target after the first shot.
- Double/Single Action Trigger — The DA pull is smooth and manageable at around 9-10 pounds, while the SA break is crisp at about 4 pounds. You get the versatility of a heavy first shot or a precise single-action squeeze.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the shooter who wants .357 Magnum power without the punishing recoil of a traditional snub-nose or full-lug barrel. It’s ideal for ECC (everyday concealed carry) if you’re comfortable with a 5-inch barrel, and it shines as a hiking or truck gun where you need a reliable, hard-hitting sidearm. If you’ve ever shot a Smith & Wesson 686 and wished it tracked flatter, this is your upgrade.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Dramatically reduced muzzle rise vs. any other .357 revolver I’ve shot
- Alloy frame keeps weight under 31 ounces for comfortable carry
- Hexagonal rifling delivers excellent accuracy with both .357 and .38 Special
- Unique look that stands out from every other wheelgun on the market
Cons
- The low bore axis changes the grip angle enough that some shooters find the initial draw from a holster feels “off” — it takes a short break-in period to train your muscle memory.
| Model | Barrel Length | Weight | Bore Axis | Capacity | Price (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chiappa Rhino 50DS | 5” | 30.5 oz | Low (inline with palm) | 6 rounds | $1,225 |
| Smith & Wesson 686 Plus | 4.25” | 38.5 oz | Standard (high) | 7 rounds | $850 |
| Ruger GP100 | 4.2” | 40 oz | Standard (high) | 6 rounds | $800 |
The Rhino 50DS trades a few ounces and one round of capacity for a significantly flatter shooting experience compared to the 686 Plus or GP100. If you prioritize recoil control over capacity, the Rhino wins. If you want a traditional feel and more rounds, stick with the S&W or Ruger.
FAQ
Is the Chiappa Rhino 50DS reliable for self-defense?
Yes. The Rhino uses a traditional revolver lockwork with a transfer bar safety, so it’s drop-safe and fires with every trigger pull. The low bore axis doesn’t compromise reliability. I’ve run several hundred rounds through mine without a single hiccup.
What holsters fit the Chiappa Rhino 50DS?
Because of the unique shape, you can’t use standard revolver holsters. Look for dedicated Rhino holsters from companies like Red Hill Tactical, or custom kydex from local makers. The 5-inch barrel fits most OWB and some IWB designs made specifically for the Rhino 50DS.
Can I shoot .38 Special +P in this revolver?
Absolutely. The Rhino 50DS is rated for .357 Magnum, so .38 Special +P is well within its pressure limits. It’s a great way to practice with lighter recoil or use it as a backup defensive load.
How does the trigger compare to a Smith & Wesson revolver?
The double-action pull is slightly heavier and longer than a tuned S&W, but it’s smooth and stack-free. The single-action break is crisp and reset is short. It’s not a competition trigger out of the box, but it’s perfectly serviceable for defensive use.
Is the Rhino 50DS legal in my state?
It’s a standard revolver with no threaded barrel or capacity restrictions, so it’s legal in most states. Check your local laws for age and permit requirements. We ship to all 50 states.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
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Last updated: April 2026




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