What’s Hot in Handguns?

0

At GunDigest, we independently review products. However, we may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site. Read our affiliate policy. Read about how we test products.

Cougar .45 with light.A year after introducing a Model 1911 look-alike in .22-caliber, Chiappa, marketed by MKS Supply (8611-A North Dixie Drive, Dept. GDTM, Dayton, OH 45415/(866) 769-4867/www.1911-22.com), is out with two new versions of that pistol, and the rather unusual Rhino revolver in .357 Magnum. I’ve fired the .22-caliber pistol and found it to be accurate, but haven’t had the chance to shoot the Rhino, which discharges out of the bottom chamber in its 6-round cylinder.

The semi-auto has a synthetic magazine, checkered wood grip panels, fixed sights and fixed steel barrel. The revolver is available first with a 2-inch barrel, and will be followed (perhaps by this time) by guns with barrels measuring 3, 4, 5 and 6 inches. The handgun’s low barrel design is supposed to reduce muzzle flip during recoil.

Chiappa’s Rhino is a hefty gun, weighing 25 ounces (with the 4-inch barrel), and has a frame made from Ergal, a high-strength alloy with a blued or brushed alloy finish. Stocks are composite rubber or wood, and there will also be a polished stainless version.

Fans of Steyr (7661 Commerce Lane, Dept. GDTM, Trussville, AL 35173/(205) 655-8299/www.steyrarms.com) semi-auto striker-fired pistols can smile because the M-A1 and S-A1 are being brought back to the American market. They began arriving on our shores in the fall, and both pistols are available in either 9mm or .40 S&W. The M-A1 has a 4-inch barrel and is a full size model while the S-A1 is a compact with a 3.6-inch tube.

Both pistols have polymer frames with molded accessory rails, low barrel axis design and an integrated trigger safety with what Steyr calls a “Reset Action System” trigger. They feature a keyed safety lock, low-profile sights and polygonal rifling.

Why You Can Trust Gun Digest


Since 1944, Gun Digest has been a trusted authority on firearms, shooting and shooting gear, delivering expert firearms reviews backed by nearly a century of experience. We go beyond standard reviews, combining hands-on independent gun testing, in-depth research, and expert insights from industry professionals and manufacturers.

Our reviewers are the bedrock of our testing and come from a comprehensive cross section of the shooting world. Their diverse backgrounds include law enforcement professionals, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and life-long firearms enthusiasts. In addition to being firearm experts, we are also thorough journalists adhering to the strictest standards of the profession.

For our readers, this means objective, unbiased reviews, free from outside influence. Our priority is to provide the information you need to make informed decisions—whether a firearm or piece of gear is a must-have investment or one to pass on.

Find out more about our Editorial Standards and Evaluation Process

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.