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

Mossberg 990 Magpul shotgun
Mossberg 990 Magpul shotgun

New for 2026: Mossberg 990 Magpul and 990 SPX Aftershock

Mossberg steps up its 990 game with a new Magpul shotgun and SPX firearm.

New for 2026: Gemtech Nebula 5.7 Direct-Thread Suppressor

Gemtech’s Nebula is a 5.7x28 mm-specific sound suppressor.

I Have This Old Gun: De Lisle Commando Carbine

The De Lisle "Commando Carbine," as it came to be known, provided British special operators with a suppressed firearm that could be used to take out targets without arousing the attention of nearby troops.

Q&A: Same Cartridge, Two Different Primer Types

Q: How do No. 34 large rifle primers from CCI differ from the standard large rifle type?

New for 2026: Stoeger STR-9 Thinline+ Pistol

Stoeger refines its STR-9 Thinline pistol to be even easier to carry.

Finding The Natural Point Of Aim

Nearly every shooter understands the basic principles of marksmanship: position, grip, sight alignment, breathing, trigger control and follow-through.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.