Chiappa Rhino 40SAR 9mm 4 Inch Black Single-Action Revolver – Proven Low-Recoil Six-Shot

Description

The Chiappa Rhino 40SAR 9mm 4 Inch Black (model CF340.277) is the compact member of Chiappa’s single-action Rhino family. It fires 9mm Luger from the bottom chamber of a six-shot cylinder, with a 4 inch barrel, black anodized alloy frame, walnut grips and a green fiber optic front sight.

Chiappa Rhino 40SAR 9mm 4 Inch Black Overview

SAR stands for single-action Rhino. Unlike the DS models, the trigger will not cock the gun; you thumb the cocking lever before each shot, then the trigger releases a short, light pull. Chiappa machines the frame from 7075-T6 aluminum and pairs it with a steel cylinder and barrel. At about 1.87 pounds and 8.5 inches long, the 4 inch is the handiest of the three 9mm SAR lengths.

Why 9mm in a Revolver

A 9mm revolver lets you share ammunition with a semi-auto pistol, and 9mm is the most affordable centerfire handgun round in the country. Because the cartridge is rimless, the Rhino uses moon clips to hold six rounds together for loading and extraction; Lipsey’s lists three clips in the box. Buy extra clips and a clip tool, because loading and unloading clips by hand takes time and sore thumbs.

The Four Inch Barrel

With the shortest barrel in the SAR line, this version balances closest to the hand and points quickly. Velocity is a little lower than from a 5 or 6 inch tube, and the sight radius is shorter, so precise shots at 25 yards take more care. It is the best choice if you want a Rhino for casual plinking, cowboy-style practice or a trail gun you might carry in a belt holster.

Single Action Operation

Cocking for every shot slows you down compared with a double-action revolver or a pistol, but it also rewards deliberate shooting and makes the gun easy for new shooters to learn. The internal safety system blocks the hammer unless the trigger is pulled. Never lower the cocking lever on a live round without following the manual, and keep your finger off the trigger until the sights are on target.

Sights and Grip

The rear sight adjusts for elevation and windage, and the green fiber optic front sight shows up well in daylight. Fiber optics are less useful in low light than tritium, so add a light if you plan to shoot at dusk. The medium walnut grip fills the hand and sits high, which is part of what keeps the bore low. Aftermarket grips exist, but Rhino holsters are fewer and costlier than those for common revolvers.

Value and Caveats

The Rhino costs more than most 9mm revolvers and much more than a single-action from Ruger or Heritage. Its appeal is the low bore axis, Italian machining and the unusual look. Service is generally through Chiappa rather than a local gunsmith. If you want a soft-shooting, distinctive 9mm wheelgun that is also friendly to California buyers, it makes sense; if you want a carry gun, look at the double-action Rhino models.

State Laws and Ownership

Revolvers are legal to own in every state, but the purchase rules vary. New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Illinois, Hawaii and several other states require a permit, license or ID card before a dealer can transfer a handgun, and some keep their own approved-handgun lists. Single-action revolvers that meet minimum barrel length, overall length and capacity rules are exempt from the California roster, which is part of why Chiappa offers SAR models, but every California sale still goes through the state’s own background check and waiting period. Your receiving dealer can confirm what applies to you.

Specifications

• Brand: Chiappa Firearms
• Model: Rhino 40SAR
• Item number: CF340.277
• UPC: 8053670717374
• Caliber: 9mm Luger
• Capacity: 6
• Action: single action only (cocking lever)
• Barrel: 4 in, 1 in 9 twist
• Overall length: 8.5 in
• Frame: 7075-T6 aluminum alloy, black anodized; steel cylinder and barrel
• Sights: adjustable rear, green fiber optic front
• Grips: medium walnut
• Weight: about 1.87 lb
• Included: three cylinder clips (Lipsey’s)
• Made in: Italy

Before You Buy

Federal law requires this handgun to ship to a licensed FFL dealer, where you complete ATF Form 4473 and a background check before taking it home. You must be at least 21 years old to buy a handgun from a dealer, and some states add a permit, license, waiting period or safety certificate first. Check that your state and city allow the model and capacity before you order.

Who It Is For

The Chiappa Rhino 40SAR 9mm 4 Inch Black is a great fit for revolver fans who want an easy-shooting 9mm Rhino, shooters who already own a 9mm pistol and want to share ammunition, and buyers in roster states looking at single-action options.

Buy the Chiappa Rhino 40SAR 9mm 4 Inch Black at MAG5 Firearms

MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the Chiappa Rhino 40SAR 9mm 4 Inch Black online and ship it to your local FFL dealer, or browse our full selection of firearms for more revolvers. For factory details, visit Chiappa USA.