The Chiappa Rhino 50DS is a 9mm SA/DA revolver with a 5" barrel, 6-round cylinder, and 31.5 oz. weight. Its defining feature is that it fires from the bottom chamber of the cylinder rather than the top, which drops the bore axis significantly and reduces muzzle rise compared to a conventional revolver. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Chiappa Firearms 
• Model: Rhino 50DS 
• Type: Revolver 
• Caliber: 9mm Luger 
• Barrel Length: 5 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Weight: 2 lbs (31.5 oz) 
• Finish Color: Black 
• Action Type: Single/Double Action 
   

Detailed Features 

Low Bore Axis 

Firing from the bottom cylinder chamber puts the barrel in line with the shooter's wrist, not above it. This geometry cuts muzzle flip noticeably, which makes faster follow-up shots easier to manage. 
 

Hexagonal Cylinder 

The hexagonal cylinder shape reduces weight relative to a round cylinder of the same capacity while keeping the structure intact. 
 

Sights 

Adjustable rear sight with a fiber optic front sight. The fiber optic front acquires well in low light. 
 

Other Details 

The snag-resistant hammer works for both open carry and concealment. Walnut grips give a secure purchase without being bulky. 
 

Intended Use 

The Rhino 50DS works for range use and can double as a home defense option. The 5" barrel and adjustable sights favor slower, deliberate shooting; the recoil management from the low bore axis helps when shooting faster. The 9mm chambering means affordable, widely available ammunition rather than the specialty loads typically needed for other revolver calibers.

The Chiappa Rhino 50DS generates strong opinions, mostly positive with a few recurring reservations.

The low bore axis design gets the most attention. Most owners confirm that muzzle rise is genuinely reduced compared to conventional revolvers, and that this makes the gun easier to shoot quickly. The fiber optic sights and smooth trigger pull also get consistent praise. The unconventional look draws polarized reactions. Some find the hexagonal cylinder and overall profile interesting, others prefer a traditional silhouette.

The 9mm chambering in a revolver format prompts debate. Some see it as an advantage for ammo cost and availability; others question why you'd choose a revolver over a semi-auto for 9mm. That's more of a philosophical discussion than a complaint about the gun itself.

Reliability is generally fine in owner reports, but a minority of users mention concerns about long-term durability of the more complex internal components given the unconventional design. Price comes up as well. It sits above most comparable revolvers, which some consider fair for the engineering involved and others find hard to justify.