Rifleman Q & A: Mystery Miroku

Q: I have an old, like-new-condition revolver made in Japan by Miroku marked for “.38 Special Caliber” that looks like maybe a copy of an S&W, but the cylinder-release catch looks more like something from a Colt. The serial number is: XX090. The gun shoots great, and the trigger pull is very smooth. In single-action mode, the pull is very light. What model gun do I have, and when was it made?

A: Your revolver is the “Police Model” made by the B.C. Miroku Firearms Co. in Japan from 1960 to 1970. Your serial number places manufacture around 1961. A quick Internet search reveals a similar example for sale at $285.

--Michael F. Carrick