Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Amadeo Rossi S.A. More Info

About the Gun

Made in Brazil, all steel frame, swing-out cylinder. A compact revolver, emphasizing concealability and simplicity for everyday carry in the growing personal defense segment. It featured basic construction with influences from S&W's J-frame, but often with rougher machining and heavier trigger pulls compared to premium competitors. Over time, it earned a "Saturday night special" label due to its low cost and widespread availability, exported to nearly 70 countries.

Production

Production of this firearm ran from approximately 1978 to 1985.

Market value

The current used market value in 95% condition is approximately $350 to $400 based on 2025 data from available online platforms.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.38 Special
Alias:	.38 Smith & Wesson Special
More Info

Analysis

In the budget compact revolver market of the late 1970s and 1980s, the original Rossi Model 68 delivered solid functional performance as an affordable S&W J-frame alternative. Its steel-frame construction and hammer-block safety ensured reliable drop-safe operation with standard-pressure .38 Special loads, while the 5-shot cylinder locked up tightly for consistent timing. Out-of-box double-action triggers were notoriously heavy (often 15-18 lbs), but responded well to spring kits or polishing for smoother pulls. Accuracy proved adequate for defensive ranges—capable of 2-4 inch groups at 15-25 yards single-action—with manageable recoil in the 3-inch barrel configuration. Overall, it offered dependable no-frills reliability for backup or concealed carry roles.