Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Rg RG39 38 Special Police Trade-in Pistol is a reliable .38 Special revolver, formerly used by law enforcement. This specific model offers a practical, no-frills option for a defensive handgun. Available now for $499.00.
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 Rg RG39 .38 Special?
| Product Type | Revolver, Police Trade-in |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds |
| Action | Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) |
| Barrel Length | Approximately 4 inches (typical for police models) |
| Sights | Fixed |
| Grips | Original composite or wood (may vary) |
| Material | Steel frame and cylinder |
| Finish | Blued (condition varies due to trade-in status) |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Condition | Used, Police Trade-in (Good to Very Good mechanical condition, cosmetic wear present) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | Approx. 25-30 oz (varies slightly by model) |
| Dimensions | Typical compact .38 Special revolver size |
| SKU | RG39-38SP-PT |
What makes the Rg RG39 a practical choice?
The Rg RG39 .38 Special Police Trade-in Pistol represents a straightforward, functional firearm. These revolvers were part of law enforcement inventories, meaning they were maintained to a certain standard for reliability. While they show cosmetic wear from duty use, the internal mechanisms are typically sound. The .38 Special cartridge is a proven performer for self-defense, offering manageable recoil and sufficient stopping power for many situations. Its simple design makes it easy to operate and maintain, a characteristic often valued in a defensive handgun. For those seeking a dependable revolver without the cost of a new firearm, a police trade-in like this RG39 offers a practical solution.
Who is this .38 Special revolver for?
Buy it if:
- You need a reliable, no-frills home defense firearm.
- You’re looking for an affordable entry into revolver ownership.
- You appreciate the history and character of police trade-in firearms.
- You want a simple, easy-to-operate handgun for personal protection.
- You’re a collector of vintage or service revolvers.
- You’re on a budget but still require a functional handgun.
Skip it if:
- You require a pristine, cosmetically perfect firearm.
- You prefer modern semi-automatic pistols with higher capacity (see our Handguns for alternatives).
- You’re looking for a lightweight, concealed carry specific revolver (explore our compact revolvers).
- You need a firearm with adjustable sights or accessory rails.
What are the pros and cons of the Rg RG39 .38 Special Police Trade-in?
This Rg RG39 .38 Special Police Trade-in is a tool, and like any tool, it has its strengths and weaknesses for specific jobs.
Pros:
- ✅ Proven Reliability: These were duty weapons, designed to function when needed.
- ✅ Affordable Price Point: A cost-effective way to acquire a functional .38 Special revolver.
- ✅ Simple Operation: Revolvers are generally straightforward to load, fire, and unload.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Steel frame and cylinder built for service use.
- ✅ Common Ammunition: .38 Special is widely available and effective for self-defense.
- ✅ Historical Value: Carries the character of a former law enforcement firearm.
Cons:
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: Expect scratches, holster wear, and finish imperfections common to used police firearms. This is not a safe queen.
- ❌ Fixed Sights: Non-adjustable sights limit precision at longer ranges.
- ❌ Limited Capacity: 6 rounds is standard for many revolvers, but less than modern semi-autos (see our semi-automatic pistols for higher capacity options).
How does the Rg RG39 compare to other revolvers?
| Feature | Rg RG39 Police Trade-in | Generic Budget Revolver (e.g., Taurus 85) | Premium Revolver (e.g., S&W 686) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame/cylinder | Aluminum frame/steel cylinder (often) | Stainless Steel |
| Quality (General) | Service-grade, robust, but used | Entry-level, new production | High-end, precision manufactured |
| Compatibility | Standard .38 Special ammo, some aftermarket grips | Standard .38 Special ammo, more aftermarket support | Standard .38/.357 Mag ammo, extensive aftermarket |
| Shipping | Same-day from Wichita, KS | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, proven service life already | Good for casual use, may show wear faster | Exceptional, built for heavy use |
| Price | ~$499.00 | ~$350-$450 (new) | ~$800-$1000+ (new) |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rg RG39 .38 Special
Is the Rg RG39 .38 Special suitable for concealed carry?
While possible, the RG39 is a full-size service revolver. Its weight and dimensions might make it less comfortable for everyday concealed carry compared to smaller, lighter revolvers or compact semi-automatics. We recommend exploring our compact handgun selection if concealed carry is your primary concern.
What kind of ammunition should I use with an Rg RG39 .38 Special?
The Rg RG39 is chambered for .38 Special ammunition. For practice, standard full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are suitable. For self-defense, we recommend using modern jacketed hollow point (JHP) ammunition specifically designed for defensive purposes. Always verify the ammunition type is correct for your firearm before loading.
What is the condition of a police trade-in firearm like the Rg RG39?
Police trade-in firearms, including this Rg RG39, typically show cosmetic wear such as holster marks, scratches, and finish thinning from regular duty use. However, they are generally in good mechanical condition, as law enforcement agencies maintain their equipment. We inspect all trade-ins to ensure they are functionally sound before listing them for sale.
Do these Rg RG39 revolvers come with any accessories?
Police trade-in firearms generally come as the firearm only. They typically do not include original boxes, manuals, or extra accessories unless specifically noted in the product description. What you see is what you get, which is a functional firearm.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can purchase revolvers and other firearms online through Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We are a licensed FFL dealer and will facilitate the transfer of your firearm to a local FFL dealer in your state, following all federal and local regulations.
Is the Rg RG39 .38 Special easy to maintain?
Yes, revolvers like the RG39 are known for their simplicity and ease of maintenance. Basic cleaning involves cleaning the bore, cylinder chambers, and wiping down external surfaces. There are fewer moving parts compared to a semi-automatic pistol, making field stripping and reassembly straightforward for most users.
Can I use +P ammunition in the Rg RG39 .38 Special?
While many modern .38 Special revolvers are rated for occasional +P use, older trade-in models like the RG39 may not be. Given its age and previous service life, we recommend consulting a qualified gunsmith or sticking to standard pressure .38 Special ammunition for longevity and safety. If you require a firearm specifically for +P use, consider newer production models designed for it.
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