Description
Looking for a reliable, no-nonsense revolver that won’t break the bank? You’ve found it. The Rossi RM64 is a classic .357 Magnum wheelgun built for real-world use, offering dependable performance in a straightforward package. It’s the kind of firearm I recommend to families and new shooters who want to learn the fundamentals on a solid platform.
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 2026
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in firearms for families and responsible shooters. The Rossi RM64 handguns revolver is a 6-round, .357 Magnum/.38 Special double-action revolver with a 4-inch barrel. This model delivers classic revolver reliability at an accessible price point. It’s in stock and ready to ship today for $395.99 (regularly $439.99).
Why the Rossi RM64 Stands Out
In my 15 years, I’ve seen a lot of revolvers come and go. The Rossi RM64 represents a specific, valuable niche: it’s a working man’s .357. It doesn’t have the fancy finish of a collector’s piece, and that’s the point. This is a tool. The 4-inch barrel provides a good balance for control and sight radius, making it manageable for learning. The .357 Magnum chambering means you can practice affordably with .38 Special rounds and step up to the more powerful magnum loads for defense or hunting. I’ve built custom competition revolvers that cost five times as much, but for a first revolver or a dependable truck gun, the RM64’s value is hard to beat.
Rossi RM64 Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Double-Action Revolver |
| Material (Frame/Barrel) | Steel / Steel |
| Manufacturing | Forged & Machined Components |
| Finish | Blued |
| Hardness/Quality | Heat-Treated Steel, Robust Lockup |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum & .38 Special Ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to Fire; Manual Safety via Long Double-Action Trigger Pull |
| Weight (Unloaded) | Approx. 36 oz |
| Dimensions (LxH) | ~9.5″ x 5.5″ |
| Country of Origin | Brazil (Rossi, now part of Taurus) |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | RM64 (Check site for specific inventory SKU) |
How the Rossi RM64 Compares
Let’s be honest about where this revolver fits. I’ve put it side-by-side with others in its class to give you a clear picture.
| Feature | Rossi RM64 | Budget Import Revolver (~$60-80) | Premium Brand (e.g., S&W 686 ~$900+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame & barrel | Often zinc alloy or pot metal | Stainless or carbon steel |
| Quality | Solid, functional build | Questionable durability, not for regular firing | Exceptional fit, finish, and smoothness |
| Compatibility | .357 Mag/.38 Spl | Typically .22 LR or low-pressure rounds only | .357 Mag/.38 Spl |
| Shipping | Same-day from TX | Long int’l shipping, customs delays | Varies, often backordered |
| Lifespan/Durability | Designed for regular use | May fail under sustained use | Lifetime+ durability, heirloom quality |
| Price | $395.99 | $60 – $80 | $900+ |
The RM64 occupies the crucial middle ground. It’s not a disposable novelty, and it’s not a luxury item. It’s a genuine firearm built to handle the .357 Magnum cartridge safely and reliably for years.
Pros and Cons of the Rossi RM64
Based on my hands-on experience, here’s the straight talk.
Pros:
- ✅ Proven Caliber: The .357 Magnum/.38 Special combination is one of the most versatile in existence.
- ✅ Simple Operation: No external safeties to fumble with. The long, deliberate double-action pull is its safety.
- ✅ Durable Construction: All-steel build can handle a steady diet of .38 Special and regular .357 Magnum use.
- ✅ Excellent Value: You get a lot of revolver for your money, making it a great first centerfire handgun.
- ✅ Good for Training: The 4″ barrel and weight help manage recoil, making it a solid platform to learn revolver fundamentals.
Cons:
- ❌ Finish Can Wear: The blued finish is functional but not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel. It requires proper maintenance. If a stainless finish is a must, check out our revolver category for other options.
- ❌ Trigger May Be Heavy: The double-action pull is typically robust, which is great for safety but can be a challenge for precision shooting. A skilled gunsmith can often smooth it out.
- ❌ Limited Aftermarket: Compared to a Smith & Wesson or Ruger, you’ll find fewer custom grips and sights readily available.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Rossi RM64
Buy it if:
- You’re looking for your first centerfire revolver and want a durable, simple platform.
- You need a dependable home defense or truck gun that works every time.
- You want a .357 Magnum but have a mid-range budget.
- You’re teaching a family member revolver basics and want a robust training tool.
Skip it if:
- You’re a competitive shooter needing a light, tuned trigger for speed events. For that, look at our handguns section for models built for competition.
- You require a stainless steel finish for harsh environments without meticulous care.
- You’re a collector seeking a high-polish, heirloom piece with extensive historical value.
Common Questions & Concerns
“Is a Rossi as good as a Taurus?” Rossi is now manufactured under the Taurus umbrella in Brazil. The quality is comparable to Taurus’s revolver lines, sharing many design philosophies. For the price, it represents solid value.
“Can I shoot .38 Special in it all the time?” Absolutely. That’s one of the big advantages. .38 Special is cheaper, has less recoil, and is perfect for practice. Then you can load .357 Magnum for serious use.
“Is the 4-inch barrel the right choice?” For a general-purpose revolver, I prefer the 4-inch. It offers better velocity and sight radius than a snubnose, but is still holsterable and manageable. It’s a great “Goldilocks” length.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rossi RM64 good for a beginner?
Yes, with proper training. Its simple operation (no external safety) and ability to shoot mild .38 Special rounds make it a viable first revolver. The weight helps manage recoil. I always recommend professional training for any new shooter.
What’s the difference between .357 Magnum and .38 Special?
.357 Magnum is a longer, more powerful cartridge. .38 Special is shorter and less powerful. The key point: a .357 Magnum revolver like the RM64 can safely fire both. You cannot fire .357 Magnum in a gun chambered only for .38 Special.
How do I clean and maintain a blued revolver?
After shooting, clean the bore and chambers with a solvent to remove powder residue and copper fouling. Wipe down all exterior metal surfaces with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust. Store it in a dry place. Avoid abrasive cleaners on the blued finish.
Can I use this for home defense?
The .357 Magnum is a proven defensive cartridge. With appropriate ammunition (like jacketed hollow points), the RM64 is a capable home defense firearm. Its reliability is a major advantage in a high-stress situation.
Does it come with a warranty?
Rossi firearms typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Be sure to register your firearm after purchase according to the instructions in the box. We at Californiagunshop also stand behind the products we sell.
What holster fits the Rossi RM64?
It will often fit holsters designed for medium-frame, 4-inch barrel revolvers like the Smith & Wesson K-frame (Model 10, 19). However, for the best fit, look for holsters specifically listed for Rossi R models or try a universal fit model first.
Where can I buy Rossi RM64 handguns revolver online?
You can purchase the Rossi RM64 right here at Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com). We are a licensed retailer based in San Antonio, TX, and we handle all the necessary legal compliance for your shipment to your local FFL dealer.
Ready to Order Your Rossi RM64?
If you’ve been searching for a straightforward, reliable .357 Magnum revolver that delivers serious capability without a serious price tag, the Rossi RM64 is your answer. It’s the kind of workhorse I respect—built to do a job without any fuss.
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
At $395.99, this is a solid deal on a solid firearm. Add it to your cart to start the easy checkout process. Remember, it will need to be shipped to your local Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder for the legal transfer—we guide you through that step.
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About this review: My name is Ryan Decker. I’ve spent 15 years in tactical retail, served as a law enforcement armorer, and have built over 300 custom firearms. My goal here at Californiagunshop is to provide clear, honest information to help you make an informed choice, especially if you’re new to shooting or buying for your family. This review is based on my direct experience with this product and similar models.
Last updated: March 2026
