Rossi M88 38 Special Police Trade-In Revolver

The rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver represents a budget-conscious entry point for shooters seeking a proven, no-frills five-shot defense revolver. These surplus revolvers have been carried by law enforcement personnel and are now available as factory trade-ins, offering a unique value proposition for those who appreciate service-worn firearms with operational integrity. Each rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver has been inspected for function and safety, though cosmetic wear consistent with professional use should be expected. This is a working firearm, not a collector piece, and it delivers reliable performance at a significant discount over new production models.

Overview

The Rossi M88 is a compact, five-shot revolver chambered in .38 Special, built on a sturdy steel frame with a 2-inch barrel. Originally procured as sidearms for police departments, these trade-ins exhibit holster wear, bluing loss, and handling marks that tell the story of their service life. Mechanically, the cylinder locks up tightly, the trigger pull is consistent, and the bore is typically in good to very good condition. The rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver is a straightforward, double-action revolver that prioritizes simplicity and reliability over aesthetic refinement.

• Chambered in .38 Special +P rated for defensive ammunition
• Five-round fluted cylinder with transfer bar safety mechanism
• 2-inch barrel with fixed front sight and rear sight groove
• Double-action/single-action trigger system
• Overall length: 6.5 inches, weight approximately 24 ounces

Features & Specs

Every rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver includes the following documented specifications and features. These revolvers are sold as-is with regard to cosmetic condition, but mechanical function has been verified by our gunsmiths. The Rossi M88 utilizes a solid frame design with a side plate for easy maintenance. The cylinder release is a push-button style located on the left side of the frame. Grips are standard rubber or wood depending on the specific trade-in lot, and may show wear from holster use.

• Manufacturer: Rossi
• Category: Revolvers
• Caliber: .38 Special (+P rated)
• Capacity: 5 rounds
• Barrel Length: 2 inches
• Action: Double-action / Single-action
• Frame Material: Carbon steel
• Finish: Blued (may exhibit wear consistent with police trade-in condition)
• Sights: Fixed front blade, integral rear groove
• Safety: Transfer bar
• Overall Length: 6.5 inches
• Weight: 24 ounces (empty)

Who It’s For

This rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver is ideally suited for budget-minded shooters, new revolver owners, or those seeking a dedicated vehicle or nightstand gun. It also appeals to collectors of law enforcement surplus who value a service-worn piece with provenance. Because of its compact profile and .38 Special chambering, it works well for concealed carry with a proper holster, though the trade-in condition means the finish may not hold up to harsh environments. This is not a target revolver; it is a utilitarian defensive tool. If you prioritize mechanical function over appearance and want a functional revolver at a low entry cost, this Rossi M88 trade-in is a strong candidate. It is also an excellent platform for learning revolver maintenance and shooting fundamentals.

• First-time revolver buyers looking for an affordable entry into .38 Special
• Experienced shooters wanting a low-cost backup or truck gun
• Surplus firearm enthusiasts who appreciate honest service wear
• Those who prefer a simple, manual-safety-free revolver for defensive use

Shipping & FFL

This rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver will ship to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer of your choice. You must select a receiving dealer that is willing to accept the transfer. We ship via common carrier with adult signature required. All federal, state, and local laws apply. It is your responsibility to verify that this firearm is legal to possess in your jurisdiction before ordering. Please have your FFL dealer send a copy of their license to our compliance department prior to shipment. No returns or exchanges are accepted on firearms after transfer has been initiated. Prices do not include any applicable sales tax or shipping fees. This rossi m88 38 special police trade-in revolver is sold as a used surplus item with no manufacturer warranty implied or expressed by the retailer.