Chiappa Rhino 60DS Revolver .357 Mag 6-inch 6-Round
Pros & cons
What works
- Low bore axis reduces muzzle flip by approximately 30% compared to standard 6-inch .357 revolvers
- Weighs 32 oz — 13 oz lighter than an all-steel S&W 686+ with same barrel length
- Includes three 6-round moon clips, cutting reload times from 8 seconds to under 3 seconds with training
Trade-offs
- Requires proprietary moon clips — standard speed loaders won't work, adding $15 per three-pack for spares
- Complex internal cam system needs detailed disassembly for deep cleaning, increasing maintenance time by 20 minutes
- Limited aftermarket grip options — only 3-4 manufacturers produce Rhino-specific panels versus 50+ for S&W
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Chiappa Rhino 60DS Revolver? The Chiappa Rhino 60DS is a .357 Magnum double/single-action revolver engineered with a bottom-cylinder firing system that places the barrel in line with the hand's center of mass, mechanically redirecting recoil vectors to reduce muzzle rise. Chambered for .357 Magnum and .38 Special, this 6-inch barrel, 6-shot model is built on an aluminum alloy frame with a steel cylinder, creating a functional competition and field sidearm weighing 32 ounces. Its design addresses a century-old physics problem in revolver mechanics, making it a distinct alternative in modern wheelgun design.
What is the Chiappa Rhino 60DS used for?
The Chiappa Rhino 60DS is primarily used for competitive action shooting, backcountry carry, and as a mechanical training tool for shooters transitioning from semi-automatics. Its 6-inch barrel provides a 10.5-inch sight radius suitable for precision drills, while its 32-ounce weight and low bore axis tame .357 Magnum recoil, making 100-round practice sessions manageable. This revolver is not a concealed-carry piece; it's a purpose-built range and woods companion for those who prioritize shot-to-shot recovery time over concealment profile.
How does the Chiappa Rhino 60DS compare to a Smith & Wesson Model 686?
The Chiappa Rhino 60DS delivers approximately 30% less perceived muzzle flip with full-power .357 loads compared to the traditional top-cylinder design of a Smith & Wesson 686 with a 6-inch barrel. Where the S&W 686 excels in timeless ergonomics and aftermarket support, the Rhino dominates in rapid, controlled follow-up shots due to its radical low-bore axis. The Rhino’s 32-ounce alloy frame is significantly lighter than the 686’s 45-ounce all-steel construction, but comes with different maintenance protocols for its intricate internal cam system.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Chiappa Rhino 60DS weighs 32 ounces (907 grams) unloaded and measures 10.5 inches in overall length with a 6-inch barrel. Its cylinder diameter is 1.57 inches, and the grip frame width is 1.38 inches, creating a compact profile despite the longer sighting plane. Compared to our Stevens 334 Rifle in .308, the Rhino is half the weight, making it a viable sidearm for extended carries where a lightweight, powerful revolver is required.
Who is this NOT for?
The Chiappa Rhino 60DS is not for first-time revolver owners or those uncomfortable maintaining non-traditional lockwork. Its trigger linkage and cylinder indexing system are more complex than a Ruger GP100's, requiring detailed disassembly knowledge. This revolver is also poorly suited for concealed carry under a shirt due to its 10.5-inch length and prominent rear sight, and it offers minimal aftermarket grip options compared to mainstream models like the S&W 686.
What's in the box?
The Chiappa Rhino 60DS ships with the revolver, three 6-round moon clips, a shell-removing tool, a factory-supplied cable lock, and a basic manual. Unlike the comprehensive kits included with our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, it does not include a hard case, spare chokes, or cleaning equipment. The moon clips allow for speed loading, reducing reload times from approximately 8 seconds with loose rounds to under 3 seconds with practiced use.
Is the Chiappa Rhino 60DS worth it at $1,131.99?
At $1,131.99, the Chiappa Rhino 60DS is worth its price for competitive shooters and experienced users seeking a mechanical advantage in recoil management that standard revolvers cannot provide. The investment buys you a proprietary firing system, not just materials, translating to tangible performance gains on timed stages. For general-purpose recreational shooting, a Smith & Wesson 686 or Ruger GP100 at a $300-$400 lower price point may offer better value through simplicity and accessory availability.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053670712164 |
| manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | 340.221 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black Anodized |
| barrel length | 6.0" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 12.3500 |
| model | Rhino |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Internal |
| shipping weight | 3.6 |
| sights | Adjustable Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammo?
- Yes, the Chiappa Rhino 60DS is fully compatible with .38 Special ammunition of all pressure levels, from standard velocity to +P. The 6-round cylinder chambers both .357 Magnum and .38 Special without adjustment, though you must clean carbon rings from the longer .357 chamber after shooting .38 Special to prevent extraction issues. For training, I recommend using 158-grain .38 Special loads to acclimate to the trigger.
- Does it fit in a standard 6-inch revolver holster?
- No, the Rhino 60DS requires a holster specifically molded for the Rhino series due to its unique hexagonal barrel shroud and squared trigger guard. A standard S&W 686 holster will not secure it properly. I recommend a Kydex duty holster from a maker like KT-Mech, which typically costs $75-100, to ensure proper retention and draw clearance.
- How long does shipping take?
- For this product, expect processing and shipping to take 3-5 business days from order confirmation to carrier pickup, plus transit time based on your location. All firearms ship via FedEx or UPS with adult signature required; we use Ironclad Armory's certified FFL network to ensure legal transfer to your local dealer. Contact customer service with your FFL's information for an exact timeline.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for genuine mechanical defects verified by our armorers. The firearm must be unfired, in original packaging, with all accessories, and shipped back through an FFL. We do not accept returns for buyer's remorse or cosmetic preferences. For warranty work, Chiappa's USA service center handles repairs, typically within a 4-6 week turnaround.
- Does this work with standard .357 speed loaders?
- No, the Rhino 60DS does not work with traditional HKS or Safariland speed loaders designed for S&W K/L-frame revolvers due to its unique cylinder cutouts. It is designed to use the included 6-round moon clips for rapid reloading. You can purchase additional Chiappa-specific moon clips from retailers like Brownells for approximately $15 per three-pack.