The rossi rp63 .357 mag revolver 3 in stainless 6-round is a compact, small-frame revolver built for personal protection. It’s chambered in .357 Magnum and also accepts .38 Special, giving you flexibility at the range or in a defensive situation. The 3-inch stainless barrel, fixed sights, and full underlug keep the weight forward for better recoil control while remaining easy to carry.
| Manufacturer | Rossi |
|---|---|
| Model | RP63 |
| Material | Stainless steel (barrel, cylinder, frame) |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum & .38 Special +P |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | Approx. 30 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Compact 3-Inch Barrel: Keeps the overall length short for concealed carry without sacrificing sight radius for accurate shot placement.
- Full Underlug Design: Adds weight forward to reduce muzzle flip during rapid follow-up shots — critical under stress.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Resists corrosion from sweat, humidity, and daily carry sweat. You won’t worry about rust after a day in a holster.
- Fixed Sights: Snag-free profile for a clean draw from concealment. No adjustments needed for defensive distances inside 15 yards.
- Wood Laminate Grips with Round Butt: Fills the hand without printing. The round butt conceals easier under a t-shirt or jacket.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits the CCW holder who wants a simple, reliable backup or primary wheelgun. It also works for home defense if you prefer a revolver’s manual of arms over a semi-auto. The .357 Magnum chambering gives you the option to shoot cheaper .38 Special for practice and load with .357 for serious work.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Dual-caliber flexibility (shoot .38 Special +P or .357 Magnum).
- Pro: Stainless finish holds up to daily carry sweat and humidity.
- Pro: Price under $450 makes it accessible for budget-conscious shooters.
- Con: Fixed sights limit elevation adjustment — you’ll need to learn your point of aim at common distances.
How It Stacks Up
| Feature | Rossi RP63 | Taurus 856 .38 Special | Smith & Wesson 642 .38 Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .38 Special +P | .38 Special +P |
| Barrel Length | 3 in | 2 in | 1.875 in |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~30 oz | ~22 oz | ~15 oz |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Finish | Stainless | Stainless or blued | Stainless or matte black |
| Price Range | $400–$450 | $350–$400 | $500–$600 |
Compared to the Taurus 856, the RP63 gives you .357 Magnum capability at a similar price point. Against the S&W 642, you get a longer barrel, heavier frame for recoil control, and a sixth round — but the 642 is lighter for pocket carry. The RP63 is a better balance for belt or IWB carry with a strong-side holster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rossi RP63 reliable for self-defense?
Yes. Rossi builds these revolvers with a transfer-bar safety and a durable stainless action. The double-action trigger is smooth enough for defensive shooting, and the single-action pull is crisp for precise shots. With proper maintenance, it runs consistently with both .38 Special and .357 Magnum loads.
Can I use .38 Special in the RP63?
Absolutely. The RP63 is chambered for .357 Magnum but accepts .38 Special and .38 Special +P without issue. Shooting .38 Special reduces recoil and extends practice time. Just clean the chambers after shooting .38 Special to prevent carbon buildup before loading .357.
What holsters fit the Rossi RP63 with a 3-inch barrel?
Look for holsters designed for small-frame revolvers with a 3-inch barrel. Brands like DeSantis, Galco, and Alien Gear offer options. The round-butt grip fits most standard revolver holsters. Check that the holster covers the trigger guard and retains the revolver securely.
Does the RP63 have a safety?
Yes. It uses a transfer-bar safety system. The hammer rests on a spring-loaded bar that only contacts the firing pin when the trigger is pulled fully. This prevents accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped or the hammer is struck.
How does the RP63 handle .357 Magnum recoil?
The 30-ounce weight and full underlug barrel absorb a good amount of recoil. It’s not a lightweight snubby, so you can shoot .357 Magnum without punishing your hand. The wood laminate grips also help spread recoil across the palm. For extended range sessions, .38 Special is more comfortable.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Browse more Revolvers or check our Concealed Carry Gear and Home Defense categories.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.