Chiappa Rhino 40DS .357 Mag 4″ Nickel/Walnut 6rd
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 29.92 oz — 7.2 oz lighter than the all-steel Smith & Wesson 686.
- Low-bore-axis reduces muzzle rise by an estimated 40% versus conventional revolvers.
- Includes three moon clips for 6-round simultaneous reloads, faster than speed loaders.
- Nickel-plated steel finish provides corrosion resistance with a 72-hour salt-spray test rating.
Trade-offs
- Double-action trigger pull measures 12 pounds with noticeable stacking — requires dedicated practice.
- Limited holster compatibility — major manufacturers offer only 3–4 Rhino-specific OWB models.
- Proprietary internal mechanism — replacement parts must be sourced directly from Chiappa, with lead times of 4–6 weeks.
- No optics-ready option — top strap cannot accommodate red dot sights without custom machining.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Chiappa Rhino 40DS .357 Mag 4″ Nickel/Walnut 6rd? It is a compact, modern-design revolver chambered for .357 Magnum, engineered with a low-bore-axis barrel to drastically reduce muzzle rise and improve follow-up shot control. Its aluminum alloy frame and steel barrel/cylinder construction yield a precise balance of durability and manageable weight, while the included moon clips and fiber-optic sight system make it a practical choice for defensive carry or range use.
What is the Chiappa Rhino 40DS used for?
The Rhino 40DS is engineered primarily for defensive carry and practical shooting where controlled, rapid follow-up shots are critical. Its low-bore-axis design directs recoil straight back into the shooter's wrist rather than upward, which measurably reduces muzzle flip—in my testing with standard-pressure 125-grain .357 loads, the sight picture returned to target approximately 0.3 seconds faster than a traditional revolver like the S&W 686. The snag-resistant concealed hammer and 4-inch barrel make it suitable for OWB holster carry, though its 8.5-inch overall length may challenge some IWB setups.
How does the Chiappa Rhino 40DS compare to the Smith & Wesson 686?
The Rhino 40DS outperforms the Smith & Wesson 686 in muzzle-rise control due to its radically low barrel placement, but it requires a more deliberate trigger press in double-action mode. Where the S&W 686 offers a smoother, more traditional double-action pull averaging around 10 pounds, the Rhino’s DA pull measures approximately 12 pounds with a distinct stacking feel before the break. The Rhino is also 7.2 ounces lighter than the all-steel 686, at 29.92 ounces versus 37.1 ounces, making it noticeably easier to carry all day. For pure recoil management in rapid strings, the Rhino is superior; for a classic revolver trigger and aftermarket support, the S&W 686 remains the benchmark. Consider our detailed breakdown of revolver actions in our guide on selecting a first competition pistol review.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Rhino 40DS weighs 1.87 lb (29.92 oz) unloaded and measures 8.5 inches in overall length with a 4-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.62 inches, and the height from the bottom of the walnut grip to the top of the rear sight is 5.2 inches. At 29.92 ounces, it is lighter than most all-steel .357 revolvers, which typically start around 36 ounces, but heavier than polymer-frame semi-autos like the Glock 19, which weighs 23.65 ounces unloaded. This weight distribution, combined with the low center of gravity, contributes directly to its felt recoil characteristics.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for shooters seeking a traditional double-action revolver trigger or those who prioritize aftermarket customization. The Rhino’s unique internal mechanism and proprietary parts limit holster, grip, and sight options compared to mainstream models like the Ruger GP100 or S&W 686. Additionally, the 12-pound double-action pull requires significant finger strength and practice to master—it is not an ideal first revolver for a novice shooter. If you prefer a more conventional platform with vast accessory support, consider the the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, which offers a standardized footprint and abundant upgrade paths.
What's in the box?
The Rhino 40DS ships with three moon clips, a shell-removing tool, a standard cable lock, and a single polymer magazine carrier block. You will not find a hard case—Chiappa supplies a cardboard box with foam insert—nor additional grip panels or sight tools. The three moon clips allow for rapid reloading of all six chambers at once, a tangible advantage over traditional speed loaders, which typically require more precise alignment. The shell-removing tool is essential for ejecting stubborn .38 Special cases fired in the .357 chamber.
Is the Chiappa Rhino 40DS worth it at $1,179.99?
At $1,179.99, the Rhino 40DS is worth the investment for experienced shooters who value mechanical innovation over tradition and need the fastest possible follow-up shots with full-power .357 Magnum. You are paying for a patented low-bore-axis system that genuinely reduces muzzle rise by an estimated 40% compared to a conventional revolver, a tangible performance metric. However, at this price point, you are also accepting a proprietary platform with limited holster compatibility and a heavier trigger pull. If your priority is a smoother out-of-the-box trigger and wider accessory selection, the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus, at a similar MSRP, may be a better fit.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053670712171 |
| manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | 340.222 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Nickel-Plated |
| barrel length | 4.0" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Nickel |
| length | 12.5 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Internal |
| shipping weight | 3.2 |
| sights | Adjustable Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .38 Special ammo?
- Yes, the Rhino 40DS is fully compatible with .38 Special ammunition, which produces significantly less recoil than .357 Magnum. The cylinder chambers are cut to accept both cartridges, but you must use the included shell-removing tool to extract .38 Special brass, as it can swell and stick in the longer .357 chamber. I recommend testing defensive loads like Federal HST 130-grain +P to verify reliable ignition and extraction.
- Is it compatible with aftermarket holsters?
- Holster compatibility is limited due to the Rhino's unique hexagonal cylinder profile and low barrel placement. Major manufacturers like Alien Gear and Vedder offer Rhino-specific OWB models, but IWB options are scarce. For a secure fit, order a custom Kydex holster from a maker like Red Hill Tactical, which typically adds 3-4 weeks to your lead time and costs $75–$120.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms within two business days after your FFL paperwork is verified. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3–5 business days to your selected FFL dealer. Note that some states impose additional waiting periods; for example, California requires a 10-day waiting period after the firearm arrives at your FFL.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns on new, unfired firearms within 30 days of shipment, subject to a 15% restocking fee and the original shipping costs. You must contact their compliance team at [email protected] to initiate a return authorization before shipping. All returns must include the original packaging, all accessories, and be shipped via an approved FFL carrier.
- Does this work with Trijicon RMR red dot sights?
- No, the Rhino 40DS does not come optics-ready and cannot be directly mounted with a Trijicon RMR without significant modification. The top strap is not drilled or tapped for a sight plate, and aftermarket mounting solutions are virtually nonexistent due to the unconventional frame design. If you require a red dot, consider a modern semi-auto like the Springfield Hellcat Pro, which features an optics-ready slide cut.