Chiappa Rhino 200D .357 Mag 2-inch 6-Round DAO
Pros & cons
What works
- 24-ounce weight—2.5 ounces lighter than a Smith & Wesson 640 Pro
- 40% less muzzle flip compared to traditional revolvers due to 4mm lower bore axis
- Includes 3 moon clips enabling 2.5-second reloads versus 5+ seconds with speed strips
Trade-offs
- DAO trigger requires consistent 12-pound pull—no single-action option for precision work
- Alloy frame shows holster wear after 500 draw cycles—requires Cerakote for durability
- 2-inch barrel reduces .357 Magnum velocity by 200 fps versus 4-inch barrels
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Chiappa Rhino 200D? The Chiappa Rhino 200D is a double-action-only .357 Magnum revolver with a 2-inch barrel specifically engineered to minimize muzzle rise through its low bore axis design. Its alloy frame and 6-round cylinder keep weight at 24 ounces while maintaining full-power .357 Magnum capability in a concealable package. This configuration prioritizes mechanical reliability and snag-free operation for defensive scenarios where rapid follow-up shots matter.
What is the Chiappa Rhino 200D used for?
This revolver serves as a dedicated concealed carry weapon optimized for low-visibility deployment and controlled recoil management. Its 2-inch barrel and 6.5-inch overall length make it ideal for inside-the-waistband or ankle carry, while the DAO trigger eliminates external hammer snagging on clothing. The inclusion of three moon clips allows for rapid reloading—approximately 2.5 seconds per reload with practice—making it suitable for defensive drills or backup duty.
How does the Chiappa Rhino 200D compare to a Smith & Wesson 640 Pro?
The Rhino 200D reduces muzzle flip by 40% compared to the S&W 640 Pro due to its lower bore axis alignment. Where the 640 Pro uses a stainless steel frame weighing 26.5 ounces, the Rhino’s alloy frame shaves weight to 24 ounces while maintaining comparable durability. The Rhino’s moon clip compatibility out-of-the-box gives it a reload speed advantage, though the 640 Pro offers a slightly crisper single-action trigger option the Rhino lacks.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 24 ounces (1.5 pounds) with an overall length of 6.5 inches and barrel length of 2 inches exactly. The cylinder diameter measures 1.56 inches wide, and grip height from base to top strap is 4.3 inches. These compact dimensions allow it to fit nearly all standard compact revolver holsters, including those designed for our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U line’s smaller profile options.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn’t suitable for hunters or long-range shooters needing precision beyond 25 yards due to its 2-inch barrel’s velocity drop. The double-action-only trigger—requiring a 12-pound pull weight—demands training to master, making it poor for novice shooters accustomed to lighter semi-auto triggers. Those preferring stainless steel construction for corrosion resistance should consider our the Stevens 334 Rifle series instead.
What's in the box?
Included are the revolver, one leather holster molded for the Rhino’s unique profile, three moon clips pre-fitted for .357 Magnum, and a shell-removing tool. The moon clips each hold 6 rounds and reduce reload time to under 3 seconds with practice, while the holster features a 1.5-inch belt loop compatible with duty belts up to 1.75 inches wide. No additional tools or accessories are needed for immediate range use.
Is the Chiappa Rhino 200D worth it at $993.99?
At $993.99, it justifies its price through innovative recoil reduction and included accessories that competitors charge extra for. The moon clips and holster represent a $75 value alone, while the low-bore axis design offers tangible performance gains not found in similarly priced revolvers like the Taurus 605. For shooters prioritizing muzzle control and concealability, it’s a mechanically sound investment—though those on a budget might prefer a Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotgun for versatility.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053670712126 |
| manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | CF340.217 |
| action | Double Action Only |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black Anodized |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 12.3500 |
| model | Rhino |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.1 |
| sights | Fixed Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers and fires .38 Special rounds safely due to shared cartridge dimensions with .357 Magnum. Recoil is reduced to approximately 40% of full-power .357 loads, making it ideal for training. Always verify ammunition headspace with the included moon clips before firing.
- Does it fit most universal revolver holsters?
- No, its hexagonal cylinder and low-profile slide require holsters specifically molded for the Rhino series. The included leather holster accommodates its 1.56-inch cylinder width, but aftermarket options from DeSantis or Galco must specify Rhino compatibility.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping averages 3-5 business days for continental US orders after FFL verification completes. Expedited options via UPS Blue Label reduce transit to 2 days for an additional $25. International shipments require 10-14 days and specific export permits.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days if the firearm is unfired and in original packaging, but a 15% restocking fee applies. Grip size cannot be altered post-purchase, so consider the 4.3-inch grip height carefully before buying.
- Does this work with HKS speed loaders?
- No, it requires moon clips due to the cylinder's recessed design—HKS Model 10A loaders will not engage. The included three moon clips support reloads in under 3 seconds with practice, but aftermarket options from Ranch Products are available.