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

Shot
Shot

An Independence Day Celebration of the Armed Citizen

Independence Day is a celebration of armed defiance to tyranny—and of the citizen’s right to defend their lives.

When Minutes Counted: The 1776 Battle of Moores Creek Bridge

Shortly before the Declaration of Independence was signed, a small but pivotal battle took place near the port city of Wilmington, N.C. The February 27, 1776, Battle of Moores Creek Bridge was the first Revolutionary War battle to be fought in the Old North State.

I Carry: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior in a PHLster Floodlight 2 Holster

In our latest "I Carry" video, we take a closer look at Kimber's latest double-stack, 2011-style handgun, the 1911 DS Warrior, and pair it with a SureFire X300 Ultra weapon light and a PHLster holster.

The Armed Citizen® July 3, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Truly American Apparel: NAA's Magnum Mini Belt Buckles

In 2026, folks are celebrating all things American. And is there anything more American than a gun belt buckle?

CVA Recalls All Paramount Muzzleloading Rifles

CVA has issued a safety recall notice for all CVA Paramount muzzleloading rifles, including Paramount, Paramount HTR, Paramount Pro, and Paramount Pro V2. The bulletin pertains to all production years of these models.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.