Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in police trade-in firearms. The Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-in Revolver is a compact, reliable .38 Special double-action revolver. This police trade-in offers practical utility and a piece of history. Available now for $599.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Rossi M88?
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame, cylinder, and barrel |
| Manufacturing | Rossi, Brazil |
| Finish | Blued (may show wear from police service) |
| Hardness/Quality | Service-grade steel, built for duty use |
| Compatibility | .38 Special ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use, standard revolver operation |
| Weight | Approximately 21-23 oz (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | 6.5 inches (overall length, 2-inch barrel) |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | Used, Police Trade-in (Good to Very Good mechanical condition, cosmetic wear present) |
| SKU | RM88-38SP-PT |
What makes the Rossi M88 a practical choice?
The Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-in Revolver is a straightforward, no-nonsense firearm. It’s a classic five-shot .38 Special, built on a compact frame. These revolvers were often carried as backup guns or by officers in plain clothes, meaning they saw daily carry and some use, but were generally well-maintained. The double-action/single-action trigger provides versatility, allowing for a deliberate single-action shot or a quick double-action pull for defensive situations. The fixed sights are robust and unlikely to snag, a benefit for concealed carry. For many, a .38 Special revolver like the M88 represents a reliable, simple platform without the complexities of modern semi-automatics.
Who is this Rossi M88 for?
Buy it if:
- ✅ You’re looking for an affordable, reliable .38 Special revolver for self-defense or home protection.
- ✅ You appreciate the history and character of a police trade-in firearm.
- ✅ You want a simple, easy-to-operate handgun without a manual safety.
- ✅ You’re a collector of police service weapons or a fan of classic revolver designs.
- ✅ You need a compact, concealable firearm for personal defense.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You require a high-capacity firearm; this is a 5-shot revolver. Consider our semi-automatic pistols for higher capacity.
- ❌ You prefer a brand-new, cosmetically pristine firearm; these are police trade-ins and will show wear.
- ❌ You plan on extensive target shooting; while capable, a dedicated range gun might offer more features. See our target pistols.
How does the Rossi M88 compare to other options?
| Feature | Rossi M88 (.38 Special Police Trade-in) | “Cheap Import” Revolver (e.g., some obscure brands) | Smith & Wesson J-Frame (e.g., S&W 642) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame, cylinder, barrel | Often lower-grade alloys, less robust steel | Aluminum alloy frame, steel cylinder/barrel |
| Quality | Service-grade, proven reliability (used) | Variable, can be inconsistent | High, established reputation for reliability |
| Compatibility | .38 Special only | Often .38 Special, sometimes less common calibers | .38 Special (+P rated for some models) |
| Shipping | Same-day from Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long lifespan with proper care (proven service life) | Potentially shorter, less durable under heavy use | Very long lifespan, highly durable |
| Price | $599.00 (Police Trade-in) | ~$60-80 (New) | ~$600-800+ (New) |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-in Revolver
What condition can I expect for a police trade-in Rossi M88?
These Rossi M88 revolvers are police trade-ins, meaning they have seen service use. Cosmetically, you can expect holster wear, dings, and scratches on the finish. Mechanically, they are inspected to be in good working order, fit for continued reliable use. We do not guarantee specific cosmetic conditions, as each firearm is unique.
Is the .38 Special cartridge suitable for self-defense?
Yes, the .38 Special cartridge, especially with modern defensive ammunition, is considered effective for self-defense. It offers manageable recoil in a compact revolver and has a long history as a law enforcement and civilian defensive cartridge.
What is the capacity of the Rossi M88 revolver?
The Rossi M88 is a 5-shot revolver, meaning its cylinder holds five rounds of .38 Special ammunition.
Can I use +P ammunition in the Rossi M88?
While many modern .38 Special revolvers are rated for +P ammunition, the older Rossi M88 models were not always specifically designed for continuous use with high-pressure +P loads. It is generally recommended to stick to standard pressure .38 Special ammunition for longevity and safety with these older trade-in models. Consult a qualified gunsmith if you have specific concerns about your individual firearm.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can purchase revolvers and other firearms online through licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate the transfer process to your local FFL dealer.
What is the barrel length of this Rossi M88?
This particular Rossi M88 police trade-in model typically features a 2-inch barrel, making it a compact and concealable option.
What is the difference between single-action and double-action on this revolver?
In double-action mode, pulling the trigger both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the gun. This results in a longer, heavier trigger pull. In single-action mode, you manually cock the hammer first, which then allows for a much lighter and shorter trigger pull to fire the gun.
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