Chiappa Rhino 50DS Revolver .357 Mag 5″ 6-Rd

About this product

What is the Chiappa Rhino 50DS Revolver? It's a .357 Magnum double/single-action revolver featuring a radically low 9mm-bore-axis design that channels recoil directly back into the webbing of your hand instead of flipping the muzzle upward. The 5-inch steel barrel is mated to a machined 7075-T6 alloy frame, resulting in a total weight of 31.5 ounces (1.97 pounds). The six-round steel cylinder operates on a unique hammerless, electronically triggered system that prioritizes mechanical lockup over traditional fanning capability.

What is the Chiappa Rhino 50DS used for?

Its primary role is defensive carry and target shooting where you prioritize follow-up speed. The low bore axis design reduces muzzle rise by an estimated 50% compared to a traditional S&W 686, allowing for faster sight realignment. This makes it effective for pin shooting or defensive drills against steel, though its 5-inch barrel length makes it a compromise for concealment.

How does the Chiappa Rhino 50DS compare to the S&W 686?

Mechanically, it’s a complete redesign of the revolver platform compared to Smith & Wesson’s classic Model 686. The Rhino’s barrel is aligned with the bottom chamber of the cylinder, dropping the bore axis 9mm lower than the S&W’s, fundamentally changing recoil impulse from an upward flip to a straight-back push. The S&W 686 has superior parts commonality and gunsmith support, while the Rhino offers faster potential split times for trained shooters.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The revolver measures 9.5 inches in overall length with a 5-inch barrel, and weighs 1.97 pounds (31.5 ounces) unloaded. That weight is concentrated in the steel cylinder and barrel, giving it a 6.5-inch sight radius and a balance point approximately 1.25 inches forward of the trigger guard. Its profile is roughly comparable to some duty-sized semiautos, but its manual of arms is pure revolver, which you can compare to the bolt-action precision of a Stevens 334 in .308 Win.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not for those seeking a traditional double-action revolver experience or those uncomfortable with proprietary mechanics. If you want to perform cowboy-action-style hammer fanning, the Rhino’s internal hammer and electronic trigger won’t allow it. It’s also a poor choice for anyone recoil-sensitive shooting full-power .357 Magnum loads, as the straight-back impulse is sharper if not higher. For a more traditional shotgun platform, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.

What's in the box?

The standard package includes the revolver, three 6-round moonclips, and a shell-removing tool. Expect basic documentation and a single 5-key lock for the cylinder, but no holster or extended optics mounting solutions. The grips are standard medium walnut; aftermarket options from Chiappa are required for significant ergonomic changes.

Is the Chiappa Rhino 50DS worth it at $1236.99?

At just under $1240, it's priced for shooters specifically seeking its unique mechanical advantage. You’re paying a premium for the proprietary low-bore-axis engineering and the alloy/steel hybrid construction. If faster controlled pairs are your metric, the price is justified. If you simply need a reliable .357 Magnum platform, more proven options exist for several hundred dollars less.