Heritage Roscoe .38 Special 3-inch Revolver — 5-Round
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 24 ounces — 6 ounces lighter than the Ruger SP101 with similar barrel length
- 3-inch barrel provides 15% better velocity than 2-inch snub-nose alternatives
- Transfer-bar safety meets ATF compliance standards without manual engagement
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights limit adjustability — requires aftermarket filing for precision zeroing
- 5-round capacity is 2 rounds fewer than most compact semi-autos like the Glock 43
- Wood grips lack texture — may slip during rapid fire without added grip tape
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Heritage Roscoe .38 Special 3-inch Revolver? The Heritage Roscoe is a compact, small-frame revolver chambered for .38 Special with a 3-inch barrel and five-round cylinder capacity, designed for shooters who value practical handling and classic styling in everyday carry or range use. It features a double/single-action mechanism with a transfer-bar safety system, traditional wood grips, and fixed sights. With an overall length of 7.50 inches and weighing 24 ounces, it balances portability with reliable operation.
What is the Heritage Roscoe .38 Special 3-inch Revolver used for?
The Heritage Roscoe is primarily used for everyday carry, range training, and as a collector's piece for its classic design. Its compact size and .38 Special chambering make it suitable for concealed carry, while the fixed sights and manageable recoil support consistent accuracy at distances up to 15 yards. For home defense or hunting, consider a larger-frame option like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win for greater stopping power and range.
How does the Heritage Roscoe compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun?
The Heritage Roscoe is better for concealed carry and handgun applications, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun excels in clay shooting and hunting scenarios. The Roscoe offers a 5-round capacity and 3-inch barrel for portability, whereas the Stevens 555 provides a 2-round capacity and 30-inch barrel for superior pattern control and range. Choose the Roscoe for personal defense and the Stevens 555 for sport shooting or bird hunting.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Heritage Roscoe weighs 24 ounces (680 grams) and measures 7.50 inches in overall length with a 3-inch barrel height. Its cylinder diameter is 1.5 inches, and the grip width is 1.2 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable concealed carry. The revolver's balanced weight distribution reduces felt recoil during rapid fire, enhancing control for most shooters.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for those seeking high-capacity firearms or modern tactical features like optics readiness or accessory rails. With only 5 rounds and fixed sights, it falls short for competitive shooting or duty use where faster reloads and customization are critical. Additionally, its .38 Special chambering may not appeal to users preferring more powerful calibers like .357 Magnum or 9mm for self-defense.
What's in the box?
The box includes the Heritage Roscoe revolver, one 5-round cylinder, a cable lock, and an owner's manual covering safety and maintenance. No additional accessories like spare grips or cleaning kits are provided, so buyers may need to purchase those separately for full functionality. The packaging is minimal, focusing on compliance with federal regulations rather than extras.
Is the Heritage Roscoe worth it at $341.99?
At $341.99, the Heritage Roscoe offers good value for its reliability and classic design, especially compared to similar revolvers like the Ruger LCR which costs around $450. Its transfer-bar safety and alloy steel barrel ensure longevity, though the lack of included extras may require additional spending. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable .38 Special revolver, it's a solid choice, but those wanting more features might explore alternatives.
Key attributes
| upc | 725327942443 |
| manufacturer | Heritage Arms |
| manufacturer part number | HR38B3W |
| action | Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black Polished |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Black |
| length | 10.5 |
| model | Roscoe |
| package height | 1.7 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 1.85 |
| sights | Black Ramp |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| magazine included | 1 x 5-Round |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special +P ammunition?
- Yes, the Heritage Roscoe is rated for .38 Special +P ammunition, but prolonged use may accelerate wear on the cylinder and frame. I recommend limiting +P rounds to occasional defensive use and sticking with standard pressure for practice to maintain longevity.
- Does it fit in a standard holster for 3-inch revolvers?
- Yes, it fits most holsters designed for 3-inch small-frame revolvers, such as those from DeSantis or Vedder Holsters. The 7.50-inch overall length and 24-ounce weight ensure compatibility with common concealed carry options.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-7 business days for continental US deliveries, depending on the carrier and FFL transfer processing. Expedited options may reduce this to 2-3 days for an additional fee.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days if the product is unused and in original packaging, but FFL transfer fees and shipping costs are non-refundable. Contact customer service for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number before sending it back.