The Rhino is a homely beast
but you should try one, at the least.
– With apologies to Ogden Nash.
This is a long episode. First the ProArms team was charged with testing a Chiappa Rhino and we found a lot to like about this new revolver of revolutionary design.
In the second part we talk with Grant Cunningham about the mechanics of the Rhino, and more.
Links:
Grant Cunningham’s Blog Posts on the Rhino, excellent pictures here.
The cutaway Rhino from the SHOT Show 2010
The 2″ Rhino we tested for this review
The “Cocking Lever” and rear sight. Red “Cocking Indicator” can be seen on the left side on top.
A closeup the the Rhino’s hexagonal cylinder showing the pins and the extractor star.
This is the group Mas shot out of the Rhino Revolver.MagTech Gold 125 grain .357 Magnum hollowpoint at 25 yards, 5 shots, 3 in one hole.
Our Lovely Holster Model Chris, shows off the Rhino in it’s sleek custom holster.
Some new info from the Manufacturer:
RHINO PERFORMANCE KITS
A revolver bred for competition! The Rhino Revolver’s unique combination of ergonomic design and physical characteristics will make it a natural born revolver for competitive shooting. Chiappa has developed a series of competitive enhancement kits to meet the specific needs of competitive shooting sports which will increase the Rhino’s performance to the greatest degree. Both double action pull and single action release will be greatly enhanced by these performance kits. Please note, that due to the lighter pull obtained, some of these kits may not be suitable for defensive purposes and should not be utilized in a “Service” revolver. Every Rhino will be manufactured with a standard “Fire Control” set, however you will have the option for the following performance “Fire Control” sets:
Stage 1: While maintaining reliability for a “Service Revolver”, Stage 1 Fire Control reduces both double action trigger pull and SA release from the standard model bringing the DA pull to approximately 8-10 Lb, with a very smooth DA cycle.
Stage 2: Perfect for combat / tactical competition, Stage 2 Fire Control kit reduces the DA trigger pull is reduced and will allow speed on trigger release. DA Trigger pull is reduced to 7-8 pounds delivering a very soft but reliable DA trigger pull with reliable ignition* (this set must be used with soft primers to insure reliability)
Stage 3: For speed events and precision shooting, the Stage 3 fire control kit is the perfect choice! Stage 3 reduces the double action pull to a mere 6-7 pounds, providing a very smooth and lightning quick trigger return. (This set must be used with soft primers to insure reliability)
Only authorized service centers can perform these modifications, because they will have necessary tools and original components for replacement.
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Gun Rights Radio, ProArms. ProArms said: ProArms Podcast #63, the Chiappa Revolver http://ht.ly/3cJpV [...]
[...] December 17th, 2010 Not sure how I missed this one, but the folks at the ProArms Podcast did a show focusing on the Rhino. The show notes page also shows some cool pictures of [...]