Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-In Revolver
Overview
The Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-In Revolver represents a practical and serviceable option for shooters seeking a reliable defensive revolver at an accessible price point. These revolvers originate from law enforcement agency inventories and have been cycled through standard duty use, offering a distinct value proposition for budget-conscious buyers. Built on Rossi’s proven small-frame platform, the M88 chambers the ubiquitous .38 Special cartridge and carries a 5-shot capacity in a compact package designed for concealed carry or backup roles. Each rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver shows typical holster wear and handling marks consistent with service history, but all units undergo functional inspection prior to listing to ensure operational soundness. The 2-inch barrel balances concealability with adequate ballistic performance for personal defense distances.
Features & Specs
This Rossi M88 revolver adheres to traditional double-action revolver mechanics with a swing-out cylinder for straightforward loading and unloading. The stainless steel or blued finish options (as available from trade-in stock) provide corrosion resistance suitable for daily carry. The fixed sights are regulation height for combat accuracy, and the rubberized grips offer positive traction even in adverse conditions.
- Caliber: .38 Special (not compatible with .357 Magnum)
- Capacity: 5 rounds in a fluted cylinder
- Barrel length: 2 inches with a full underlug
- Action: Double-action/single-action with exposed hammer
- Overall length: 6.7 inches; weight: approximately 22 ounces unloaded
- Finish: Trade-in condition with holster wear, minor surface scuffs, and handling marks
- Sights: Fixed front blade and rear notch
As a police trade-in, this rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver has been carried extensively but fired relatively little compared to civilian counterparts. The internal lockwork remains tight, and cylinder timing is verified during our inspection process. The trigger pull weight falls within standard factory specifications for double-action revolvers, typically measuring between 10 and 12 pounds in DA mode with a lighter single-action let-off.
Who It’s For
The Rossi M88 appeals to several distinct user groups. First, it serves as an economical entry point for new revolver shooters who want to learn fundamentals on a proven platform without investing in a premium-priced firearm. Second, it functions as a reliable truck gun or glovebox companion where cosmetic perfection is less critical than functional dependability. Third, collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the character of law enforcement trade-in firearms will find these revolvers representative of an era when .38 Special revolvers dominated police duty holsters. Finally, the rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver suits those seeking a lightweight backup piece for hiking or outdoor activities where a larger semi-automatic might be cumbersome. The 2-inch barrel and compact frame make it suitable for ankle carry or pocket carry with an appropriate holster.
- New shooters wanting an affordable revolver for range practice and defensive familiarization
- Experienced owners needing a rugged beater gun for rough environments
- Those building a collection of police trade-in firearms with documented service history
- CCW permit holders seeking a deep-concealment option with manageable recoil
Shipping & FFL
This Rossi M88 revolver will ship to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer for transfer. We cannot ship directly to residential addresses. Before placing your order, please confirm that your receiving FFL dealer is willing to accept transfers from online retailers and that they have a current license on file with us. We will ship within three business days of receiving a valid FFL copy via fax or email. All federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm purchases apply. It is your responsibility to verify compliance with applicable regulations in your jurisdiction before ordering this rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver.
- Must ship to a licensed FFL dealer for federal background check and transfer
- Include your chosen FFL’s contact information and current license copy at checkout
- State and local restrictions may apply; check your laws before purchasing
- No returns on firearms due to regulatory restrictions; inspect upon transfer





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