Description
The Chiappa Rhino Match Master 38 Special (model 340.302, the 60DS Match Master) is a target version of Chiappa’s low-bore-axis revolver. It pairs a 6 inch barrel and a full-length Aristocrat rail sight with a grey PVD finish and a double-action/single-action trigger, built in Italy for shooters who want something very different from a traditional wheelgun.
Chiappa Rhino Match Master 38 Special Overview
Chiappa designed the Rhino around one idea: fire the cartridge from the bottom chamber of the cylinder instead of the top. That puts the bore almost in line with your hand, so recoil pushes straight back instead of flipping the muzzle up. The Match Master takes that platform toward competition with a top-mounted sight rail, a grey physical vapor deposition finish over an Ergal alloy frame, a steel barrel and breech shield, and Hogue Micarta grip panels.
Chambered for 38 Special
This Rhino is chambered in .38 Special only, with a six-round cylinder and a 1 in 18 twist. That keeps recoil soft and ammunition affordable for long practice sessions and matches. Do not fire .357 Magnum in it. .38 Special +P loads are covered by many Rhino owners’ manuals, but check the manual that comes in the case before shooting anything hotter than standard pressure, especially with a lightweight frame.
The Rail Sight and Weight
Lipsey’s lists the sight as an Aristocrat rail sight, which runs the length of the barrel shroud and gives a long, stable sight picture with adjustable settings. It also adds mass: both Chiappa and Lipsey’s list the gun at about 2.9 pounds, which is heavy for a Rhino. For bullseye, steel and precision work the weight helps, but this is a range and competition revolver, not a carry gun, and holsters for it are hard to find.
Trigger and Action
The 60DS is a true double-action/single-action revolver, with a cocking lever that resets the internal hammer. The Rhino’s double-action pull feels different from a Smith and Wesson or Ruger, and many owners find it long but even. Cocking it for single action gives a lighter, shorter break for precise shots. Spend time with snap caps and dry practice before your first match to learn where the trigger breaks.
How the Low Bore Feels
Firing from the lowest chamber changes how the gun feels. Muzzle flip is reduced, so follow-up shots are quicker, and many shooters find recoil impulse more of a push than a snap. The trade-offs are an unusual look, a mechanism that is more complex than a classic revolver and limited gunsmith familiarity outside Chiappa’s own service center. Keep the factory manual and contact Chiappa USA for repairs.
Who Should Pay for It
The Match Master costs considerably more than a standard Rhino or a target-grade revolver from Smith and Wesson or Ruger. You are paying for the unusual action, the PVD finish, the Micarta grip panels and the rail sight. Resale is good among Rhino collectors but limited outside that group. If you want a revolver that shoots soft, looks unlike anything else on the line and has collector appeal, it delivers.
State Laws and Ownership
Revolvers are legal to own in every state, but buying one is not equally simple everywhere. New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Illinois, Hawaii and several others require a permit, license or ID card before a dealer can transfer a handgun. California and Massachusetts also keep approved-handgun lists, so confirm that this model can be sold where you live. Some states add waiting periods. Your receiving dealer can check the current rules before you order.
Specifications
- Brand: Chiappa Firearms
- Model: Rhino 60DS Match Master
- Item number: 340.302
- UPC: 8053800941594
- Caliber: 38 Special
- Capacity: 6
- Action: double action/single action
- Barrel: 6 in, 1 in 18 twist
- Overall length: 10.5 in
- Frame: Ergal alloy, steel barrel and breech shield
- Finish: grey PVD
- Sights: Aristocrat rail sight (Lipsey’s)
- Grips: Hogue Micarta
- Weight: about 2.9 lb
- 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 Match Master 38 Special is a great fit for competition and target shooters, Rhino collectors and revolver fans who want a soft-shooting 38 with a long rail sight and a finish that stands out.
Buy the Chiappa Rhino Match Master 38 Special at MAG5 Firearms
MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the Chiappa Rhino Match Master 38 Special 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.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.