Rookie Red?

by
posted on November 6, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wiley-clapp.jpg

In my treasure box of gun-related stuff (actually the detritus of a hundred other guys’ boxes), I have an unusual set of revolver grips. I would like to ask my readers, particularly in the East, to help me identify them.

They are plain, checkered service grips for a Colt I Frame revolver (Python, Trooper, OMM, Official Police). Made of plastic, they are the basic service grip used on police revolvers, except for the fact that they are bright fire engine red.

The story that came with the grips was that they were issued to rookie cops who had yet to pass their probation. As they went about their business, the bright red grips served to instantly identify them as persons not completely trained in every aspect of police work. I do not know if, where, when and why this happened, but I would appreciate any reader who can fill in the blank spots in the story to do so. Let’s hear from you, guys.

Latest

Stoeger STR-9 Thinline
Stoeger STR-9 Thinline

Review: Stoeger STR-9 Thinline

The new Stoeger carry gun loses nothing—except some weight and girth. This is the Stoeger STR-9 Thinline.

5 Great Products for Your Next Hunt

These five products will help boost your chances at success in the field.

Small Calibers for Self-Defense: Addressing Common Myths & Criticisms

For decades, small cartridges like the .22 Long Rifle were derided as incapable rounds for defensive use and were even considered dangerous for the user by some. Today, those critiques deserve a second look.

New for 2026: HUXWRX Flow 9k PCC & Flow 9 M Suppressors

Continuing the legacy it first established as Operator Suppressor Systems, HUXWRX is still introducing new and mission-specific flow-through suppressors, with its latest products being the FLOW 9 M and FLOW 9k PCC.

Armed Citizen Stops Oregon Attack; NRA Reaffirms Importance of Law-Abiding Armed Citizenry

The National Rifle Association of America today issued a statement regarding yesterday’s act of violence in Oregon.

Gun of the Week: Tokarev TT-12 Pro

While there are several AR-style, semi-automatic shotguns on the market, the Tokarev TT-12 Pro has a few features you won’t find elsewhere. And it’s affordable, to boot.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.