Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver offers a practical and reliable option for personal defense or target practice. These police trade-ins represent a solid value. 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 R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver?
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame, cylinder, and barrel |
| Manufacturing | Rossi, Brazil |
| Finish | Blued |
| Hardness/Quality | Duty-grade construction for its era |
| Compatibility | .38 Special ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | DA/SA operation, fixed sights |
| Weight | Approximately 24-26 oz (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Compact frame, 2-inch barrel |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | Police Trade-In (Good to Very Good, cosmetic wear expected) |
| SKU | R351-PT-38SP |
What are the key features of the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver?
- .38 Special Chambering: This revolver is chambered in .38 Special, a widely available and effective cartridge for both self-defense and target shooting. It’s a proven round that offers manageable recoil for most shooters.
- Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) Trigger: The DA/SA trigger mechanism allows for a long, heavy double-action pull for quick deployment or a lighter, more precise single-action pull for aimed shots. This versatility is a hallmark of traditional revolvers.
- Compact 2-inch Barrel: The short barrel makes this Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver easier to conceal and handle in tight spaces. It’s a common configuration for police backup guns or personal defense.
- Fixed Sights: Equipped with fixed sights, this revolver offers a robust and snag-free profile. While not adjustable, fixed sights are generally reliable and durable for their intended purpose.
- Police Trade-In Condition: These revolvers have seen service, meaning they’ve been carried and used. Expect cosmetic wear such as holster marks, finish thinning, and minor dings. Mechanically, they are inspected to be in good working order.
- 5-Round Cylinder Capacity: A standard capacity for a compact .38 Special revolver, offering adequate rounds for a defensive encounter.
Who is the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver for?
This Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver is a solid choice for individuals seeking a dependable, no-frills firearm. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- First-time handgun owners: Revolvers are generally simpler to operate than semi-automatics, making them a good starting point for new shooters.
- Concealed carry permit holders: The compact size and snag-free design make it a viable option for discreet carry.
- Home defense: A .38 Special revolver is a proven tool for home protection, offering reliability and straightforward operation under stress.
- Budget-conscious buyers: As a police trade-in, this Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver offers significant value compared to new firearms.
- Collectors of service firearms: For those interested in firearms with a history, police trade-ins offer a unique appeal.
What are the pros and cons of the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver?
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Reliability: Revolvers are inherently simple and less prone to certain malfunctions than semi-automatics.
- ✅ Simplicity of Operation: No safeties to manipulate, just point and pull the trigger. Easy to learn for new shooters.
- ✅ Compact Size: Excellent for concealed carry or as a backup firearm.
- ✅ Affordability: A cost-effective way to acquire a functional defensive firearm.
- ✅ Proven Caliber: .38 Special is effective and widely available.
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Limited Capacity: 5 rounds may be insufficient for some defensive scenarios. Consider a semi-automatic for higher capacity needs.
- ❌ Fixed Sights: Not adjustable for windage or elevation, which can limit precision at longer ranges.
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: As a police trade-in, expect finish wear and minor imperfections. If pristine appearance is a priority, see our new firearms selection.
How does the Rossi R351 compare to other revolvers?
| Feature | Rossi R351 (.38 Special Police Trade-In) | “Cheap Import” Revolver (e.g., some older Charter Arms) | Smith & Wesson J-Frame (e.g., M&P Bodyguard 38) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame, cylinder, barrel | Often alloy frame, steel cylinder/barrel | Aluminum alloy frame, stainless steel cylinder/barrel |
| Quality | Duty-grade, used. Solid construction. | Varies widely, can be inconsistent. | High, modern manufacturing standards. |
| Compatibility | .38 Special | .38 Special, sometimes .22LR | .38 Special (+P rated often) |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS (FFL required) | Varies by seller (FFL required) | Varies by seller (FFL required) |
| Lifespan/Durability | Good, expected service life remaining. | Can be limited depending on specific model and usage. | Excellent, designed for long-term use. |
| Price | $599.00 | ~$350 – $450 (new) | ~$550 – $700+ (new) |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver
Is the Rossi R351 suitable for concealed carry?
Yes, the compact size and 2-inch barrel of the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver make it a practical option for concealed carry, especially when paired with a quality holster.
What kind of ammunition does the Rossi R351 use?
The Rossi R351 is chambered for .38 Special ammunition. While some .38 Special revolvers can handle +P loads, it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations or a qualified gunsmith regarding specific ammunition types for trade-in firearms.
What does “police trade-in” mean for the condition of the revolver?
“Police trade-in” indicates that the firearm was previously used by a law enforcement agency. This means the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver will likely show cosmetic wear such as holster marks, scratches, or finish thinning. However, they are generally well-maintained mechanically and inspected for functionality before sale.
Can I use this revolver for target shooting?
Yes, the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver can be used for target shooting. The .38 Special cartridge is pleasant to shoot, and while the fixed sights and DA/SA trigger might require some practice, it’s a capable range firearm for skill development.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can buy revolvers online, including the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver, from Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com. Remember that all firearm purchases require shipment to a licensed FFL dealer for transfer.
What’s the difference between DA and SA operation?
DA (Double Action) means pulling the trigger both cocks the hammer and releases it. SA (Single Action) means the hammer must be manually cocked first, resulting in a lighter trigger pull. The Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver offers both.
Do I need an FFL to purchase this revolver?
Yes, all firearm purchases, including the Rossi R351 38 Special DA/SA Police Trade-In Revolver, must be shipped to a Federal Firearm License (FFL) holder in your state for transfer. We will need a copy of your chosen FFL’s license before shipping.
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