Description

Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-In Revolver: A Reliable and Affordable Wheelgun

For shooters seeking a no-frills, duty-proven revolver at an accessible price point, the Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-In Revolver represents a compelling option. This specific variant, sourced from law enforcement inventories, offers a blend of practical utility and historical provenance. Built to the exacting standards of police departments across the United States, this revolver has been carried but not abused, offering a genuine service-grade firearm for the budget-conscious buyer. The rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver is a popular choice for those who value function over frills, providing a solid platform for home defense, range shooting, or as a reliable backup piece.

Overview

The Rossi M88 is a 5-shot, snub-nose revolver chambered in .38 Special. The police trade-in designation means these specific revolvers were previously issued to law enforcement officers, often carried as a secondary or backup firearm. As a result, they exhibit typical holster wear, including bluing loss on the cylinder and barrel edges, but maintain strong mechanical function. This is not a safe queen; it is a working firearm. The rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver action is smooth and reliable, a testament to Rossi’s manufacturing standards. Each revolver has been inspected to ensure operational safety and cylinder lockup. The fixed sights are standard for this class of revolver, providing a consistent point of aim with standard pressure .38 Special ammunition.

Features & Specs

This revolver is built around a solid steel frame, offering durability and a manageable weight for its compact size. The 2-inch barrel makes it exceptionally easy to conceal, while the rubber grips provide a secure hold even in adverse conditions. Below are the key specifications for this model.

• Caliber: .38 Special (not +P rated for extended use, but standard pressure is optimal)
• Capacity: 5 rounds (cylinder)
• Barrel Length: 2 inches
• Action: Double/Single Action (DAO/SA)
• Front Sight: Fixed ramp
• Rear Sight: Fixed notch
• Grips: Factory rubber (may show wear from holster carry)
• Finish: Blued steel (showing holster wear and patina)

The double-action trigger pull is typical of a service revolver, offering a smooth, consistent pull for defensive use. The single-action pull is crisp and light, ideal for slow, precise shooting at the range. The cylinder release is a standard thumb latch, and the ejector rod clears spent casings reliably. Given its police trade-in status, this rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver may exhibit minor cosmetic blemishes, but the mechanical integrity is paramount.

Who It’s For

This revolver is ideally suited for several distinct user profiles. First, the budget-minded shooter who wants a functional, reliable firearm without the premium price of a new production model. Second, collectors of law enforcement memorabilia will appreciate the authentic carry wear and provenance of a genuine police trade-in. Third, it is an excellent choice for a truck gun, nightstand revolver, or a simple, low-maintenance home defense tool. The rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver is also an ideal training platform for new shooters due to its manageable recoil and straightforward manual of arms. If you value mechanical reliability over cosmetic perfection, and you understand the history of a firearm that served a professional duty, this revolver is for you.

• Home Defense: Simple point-and-shoot capability with no safety levers to fumble with.
• Backup Carry: Lightweight and concealable for deep concealment or ankle carry.
• Range Toy: Affordable centerfire shooting that is easy to clean and maintain.

Shipping & FFL

This rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver will ship to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer. Please read the following important transfer information carefully. All firearms are shipped via a licensed carrier and require an adult signature upon delivery. It is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure that the firearm is legal to own in their state and local jurisdiction. We do not ship to P.O. boxes.

• FFL Requirement: You must select a valid FFL dealer during checkout. Your dealer must be willing to accept the transfer.
• Transfer Process: After placing your order, please have your FFL dealer email or fax a copy of their license to our compliance team. Orders cannot ship without a valid license on file.
• Age Restriction: You must be at least 21 years of age to purchase a handgun from a Federal Firearms Licensee.
• State Laws: It is your responsibility to comply with all state and local laws regarding magazine capacity, handgun roster requirements, and waiting periods. We reserve the right to cancel any order that violates applicable law.