Chiappa Firearm's Rhino Revolver, distributed by MKS Supply, will be the 2-inch barrel model. Within the next 60 days it is expected that the 3, 4, 5, and 6-inch versions will clear U.S. import and ATF tests as they are simply the same gun with longer barrels.
The Rhino, especially in the 2-inch version is an unusual looking firearm but form really does follow function. The recoil and muzzle flip from hot loads is greatly reduced thanks to the bottom chamber firing position. It just Works! And people who have shot it are amazed by the glass smooth action of this revolver.
Called the Rhino (sort of resembles one too) officers will first notice that the barrel is actually at the bottom of the cylinder. The gun is designed to fire from the bottom chamber of the cylinder (6:00 position not 12:00 as with other revolvers). The new design resulted in improvements of the internal mechanisms over conventional revolver designs yielding up incredible reliability, a super-smooth action and improved safety.
The Rhino's low barrel design ergonomically shifts recoil energy into the center of the palm of the hand and in line with the forearm thus greatly reducing the effects of felt recoil. Traditional revolver design (semi-autos too) place the barrel above the hand. When the gun is fired the leverage applied by that design forces the recoil into the web area of the hand between the thumb and trigger finger causing significant muzzle snap. Not the Rhino! Due to this new design a shooter can now fire very fast and accurate repeat shots.
The Rhino is designed to reduce its carry profile. This design is even carried into the hexagonal shaped cylinder making for a flatter profile when carried (especially handy for legal concealed carry).
Basic Specifications
(and more later as other variations or models develop):
- Caliber: .357 magnum (and of course .38 Special)
- Barrel Lengths: 2,3,4,5, and 6-inch
- Basic weight 25-ounces with a 4-inch barrel
- Frame Material: Ergal (a high-strength aircraft aluminum alloy)
- Metal finish: Blued or brushed alloy and stainless steel (stainless version first available in U.S.)
- Stocks: Composite rubber or wood. One piece, retained by a single screw at the butt.
- Capacity: 6-rounds
- Final fit and finish work done in U.S.A.
