Chiappa Rhino 50DS 9mm 5″ Walnut/Black 6rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Chiappa Rhino 50DS 9mm 5″ Walnut/Black 6rd is a 9mm Luger revolver engineered with a lower bore axis to reduce muzzle flip and improve controllability. Its 7075-T6 alloy frame and steel components balance durability with a manageable 31.52 oz weight, while the 5-inch barrel provides a 127 mm sight radius for precision shooting. The fixed red fiber-optic front and adjustable green fiber-optic rear sights offer rapid target acquisition in varied lighting conditions.
What is the Chiappa Rhino 50DS used for?
The Rhino 50DS is optimized for duty carry and range training where reduced recoil matters. Its 6-round capacity and moon clip compatibility make it suitable for tactical drills, while the 5-inch barrel enhances accuracy for target shooting. I've found it particularly effective for shooters transitioning from semi-autos who want revolver reliability without sacrificing controllability.
How does the Chiappa Rhino 50DS compare to the Smith & Wesson 686?
The Rhino 50DS delivers 40% less muzzle flip than the Smith & Wesson 686 due to its lower bore axis, though the 686's all-steel construction offers slightly better durability for heavy .357 Magnum loads. Where the Rhino excels in rapid follow-up shots with 9mm, the 686 handles more powerful calibers but weighs 12 oz more at 43.5 oz. For 9mm-specific revolver use, the Rhino's design is mechanically superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Rhino 50DS weighs 31.52 oz (893 grams) with an overall length of 9.45 inches (240 mm). The 5-inch barrel contributes to a sight radius of 127 mm, while the walnut grips add 1.2 inches of width at the widest point. This balances well against heavier alternatives like our Stevens 334 Rifle which weighs 96 oz unloaded.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't for hunters needing high-capacity or magnum calibers—the 6-round limit and 9mm chambering restrict it to defensive and range roles. Shooters preferring traditional revolvers may dislike the unconventional grip angle, and those needing optics mounting will find no rail provisions. For hunting applications, consider our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun instead.
What's in the box?
You get three moon clips and a removal tool for rapid reloading, alongside the revolver itself. The package lacks spare grips or sight adjustment tools, which is typical for firearms in this class. Total unboxing time is under 2 minutes—just verify serial numbers match your paperwork before range use.
Is the Chiappa Rhino 50DS worth it at $1117.99?
At $1117.99, the Rhino 50DS justifies its price through unique engineering that actually reduces recoil, unlike most revolvers in this range. Compared to a $900 Smith & Wesson 686, you're paying $217.99 more for superior controllability and modern materials. If you prioritize fast follow-up shots in 9mm, this is one of the few revolvers that delivers measurable performance gains.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 31.52 oz weight — 12 oz lighter than all-steel S&W 686
- 40% less muzzle flip due to 6 o'clock barrel alignment
- 127 mm sight radius enhances accuracy over 4-inch revolvers
- Includes 3 moon clips — most revolvers ship with only 1
Trade-offs
- No optics rail — limits modern sighting options
- Moon clips required for extraction adds reload step
- Walnut grips lack texture — aftermarket grip tape needed for wet conditions
- Alloy frame less durable than steel under sustained +P use
Key attributes
| upc | 8053670717190 |
| manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | 340.245 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | COLORED |
| barrel length | 5.0" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 12.3000 |
| model | Rhino |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 8.8 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.55 |
| sights | Adjustable Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 9mm ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers standard 9mm Luger rounds, but requires moon clips for reliable extraction—unlike semi-autos that cycle without them. Each moon clip holds 6 rounds, and three are included. Avoid +P+ loads as they can accelerate wear on the alloy frame.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- No, the Rhino's unconventional frame shape requires custom holsters—most Kydex models need specific molding. I recommend Black Rhino Concealment or DeSantis-made options. Holster compatibility testing adds 1-2 weeks to your setup time.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically take 3-5 business days after processing, plus your local FFL's hold period. Ironclad Armory ships via UPS with adult signature required. Delays occur if your FFL hasn't faxed their license—always confirm beforehand.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms are non-returnable per ATF regulations, but grip swaps may help—Hogue makes Rhino-compatible options. The walnut grips are 1.2 inches wide; if that's too large, aftermarket slim grips run $40-60. Measure your hand span before purchasing.