Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr Police Trade In Revolver is a reliable, used .22LR revolver known for its target shooting capability and collector appeal. This police trade-in model offers a piece of history. Available for $329.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What is the Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr Police Trade In Revolver?
This is a police trade-in Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight .22LR revolver. These were fairly common back in the day, often used for training or as backup guns. The “Sealed Eight” refers to its eight-shot capacity, and being a .22LR, it’s a low-recoil option that’s generally inexpensive to shoot. As a trade-in, it shows signs of use, but these Iver Johnsons were built for utility. It’s a double-action/single-action revolver, which means you can cock the hammer for a lighter trigger pull or just pull the trigger all the way through for a heavier, but faster, shot. For folks looking for a vintage plinker or a piece of firearms history, these trade-ins can be a good option. They aren’t fancy, but they tend to be reliable for their intended purpose.
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) |
| Action | Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) |
| Capacity | 8 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | Approximately 6 inches (typical for this model) |
| Sights | Fixed |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Grip Material | Likely wood or hard plastic (original factory) |
| Finish | Blued (original factory finish, may show wear) |
| Condition | Used, Police Trade-In (Good to Very Good mechanical condition, cosmetic wear present) |
| Weight | Approximately 28-32 oz (unloaded) |
| Country of Origin | USA (Iver Johnson’s Arms & Cycle Works) |
| SKU | IJ-SS8-22LR-PTI |
What are the key features of this Iver Johnson revolver?
- .22LR Caliber: Low recoil and affordable ammunition make it suitable for plinking, target practice, or introducing new shooters to revolvers.
- 8-Shot Capacity: The “Sealed Eight” designation refers to its generous eight-round cylinder, offering more shots than many common revolvers of its era.
- Police Trade-In: These firearms have a history of service, often showing honest wear but maintaining mechanical integrity. They represent a tangible piece of law enforcement history.
- Double Action/Single Action: Provides flexibility in shooting, allowing for a quick double-action pull or a more precise single-action shot.
- Solid Construction: Iver Johnson revolvers from this period were built with durable steel frames, designed for regular use.
Who is this revolver for?
Buy it if:
- You’re a collector of vintage firearms, especially police trade-ins or Iver Johnson models.
- You want an affordable and reliable .22LR revolver for plinking or target shooting at the range.
- You appreciate firearms with a bit of history and character, understanding that a trade-in will show cosmetic wear.
- You’re looking for a low-recoil option for new shooters or for practicing revolver fundamentals without breaking the bank on ammo.
- You need a sturdy, no-frills .22LR revolver that functions as intended.
Skip it if:
- You require a firearm with a pristine, factory-new cosmetic finish.
- You are looking for a modern self-defense firearm with advanced features. (Consider our modern revolver selection for contemporary options.)
- You need a revolver with adjustable sights for precision competition shooting.
- You expect a high-capacity semi-automatic pistol. (Browse our full shop for semi-automatic handguns.)
What are the pros and cons of the Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight?
✅ Pros
- ✅ Affordable Shooting: .22LR ammunition is one of the most cost-effective calibers, making range trips more budget-friendly.
- ✅ Historical Value: As a police trade-in, it carries a unique history and may appeal to collectors of vintage law enforcement firearms.
- ✅ Reliable Design: These revolvers are generally simple and robust, offering consistent function for their age.
- ✅ Low Recoil: The .22LR cartridge produces minimal recoil, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions and ideal for new shooters.
- ✅ 8-Shot Capacity: More rounds per cylinder than many other .22LR revolvers of its time, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
❌ Cons
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: Being a police trade-in, expect visible signs of use such as holster wear, finish imperfections, and dings. It’s not a showpiece.
- ❌ Fixed Sights: The fixed sights are adequate for general plinking but don’t offer the precision or adjustability of modern target revolvers.
- ❌ Older Design: Lacks modern ergonomic features, modularity, or accessory rails found on contemporary firearms. (For modern features, see our current production revolvers.)
How does this revolver compare to other options?
| Feature | Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight (.22LR) | Heritage Rough Rider (.22LR) | Ruger LCR (.22LR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame, blued finish | Alloy frame, steel cylinder | Polymer frame, stainless steel cylinder |
| Quality | Serviceable vintage construction, robust for its era | Basic, functional plinker quality | Modern, lightweight, duty-grade quality |
| Compatibility | Limited to original parts, no modern accessories | Some aftermarket grips available | Wide range of aftermarket grips, holsters, and sights |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS (FFL required) | Ships from manufacturer/distributor (FFL required) | Ships from manufacturer/distributor (FFL required) |
| Lifespan/Durability | Proven durability for a vintage firearm, with proper care | Good for casual use, generally considered less robust than steel | Designed for long-term, regular use, high durability |
| Price | $329.00 (Police Trade-In) | ~$150 – $200 | ~$450 – $550 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Police Trade-In” mean for this Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr revolver?
A “Police Trade-In” designation means this revolver was previously owned and used by a law enforcement agency, then sold off. These firearms typically show cosmetic wear from holster carry and handling but are generally in good mechanical working order, having been maintained to agency standards.
Is the Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr a good choice for a first-time gun owner?
For a first-time gun owner interested in a low-recoil, affordable option for target practice, a .22LR revolver like this can be a good starting point. However, its vintage nature means it lacks modern safety features and ergonomics. Training is always recommended regardless of the firearm choice.
Can I use modern .22LR ammunition in this vintage Iver Johnson revolver?
Yes, standard velocity and high velocity .22LR ammunition should be safe to use in the Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight. Avoid hyper-velocity or specialty rounds unless specifically verified by a qualified gunsmith, as older firearms may not be designed for the pressures generated by some modern loads.
What kind of accuracy can I expect from this Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr revolver?
With its fixed sights and typical barrel length, the Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr is generally capable of reasonable accuracy for plinking and general target shooting at common handgun distances (e.g., 7-15 yards). It’s not designed as a precision target pistol, but with practice, you can achieve respectable groups.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can buy revolvers online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate the online sale and shipment of firearms to your local FFL dealer for transfer, adhering to all federal and state laws.
What maintenance is required for a used Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr revolver?
Regular cleaning after each use, especially the bore and cylinder chambers, is important. Inspect for wear on moving parts and apply appropriate gun oil. Given its age and used condition, it’s always advisable to have a competent gunsmith inspect any police trade-in firearm before firing it for the first time.
Are parts readily available for the Iver Johnson Supershot Sealed Eight 22lr police trade in revolver?
Parts for vintage Iver Johnson revolvers can be more challenging to find compared to modern firearms. While some common springs or small components might be sourced, major parts like cylinders, frames, or barrels are generally scarce and may require custom fitting by a gunsmith or finding donor guns.
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Last updated: April 2026
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