Rock Island Armory M206 Spurless .38 Special 2in 6rd
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 25.44 oz - 4 oz heavier than aluminum-frame competitors but more durable
- 6-round capacity - standard for .38 Special revolvers with 1.38-inch cylinder width
- 2-inch barrel keeps overall length to 6.75 inches for optimal concealment
Trade-offs
- 14-pound double-action trigger pull - 2 pounds heavier than Smith & Wesson Model 642
- No included hard case - requires $30-50 aftermarket purchase for proper storage
- Wood grips lack palm swell - may require $45-75 aftermarket replacement for larger hands
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Rock Island Armory M206 Spurless .38 Special 2in 6rd? It's a compact-frame, spurless revolver chambered in .38 Special designed for discreet carry and straightforward function. This 25.44-ounce firearm features a fully shrouded 2-inch barrel and six-shot cylinder, making it suitable for concealed carry or everyday range use. The design emphasizes compactness and simple operation with checkered wood grips and fixed sights.
What is the Rock Island Armory M206 used for?
The M206 is primarily used for concealed carry and close-quarters self-defense. Its spurless hammer prevents snagging during draw, and the 2-inch barrel keeps overall length to just 6.75 inches. I've found it reliable with standard pressure .38 Special loads, though +P ammunition requires careful consideration of wear over time.
How does the Rock Island Armory M206 compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 642?
The M206 offers better value at $261.99 compared to the $469 Smith & Wesson Model 642. While the Model 642 has a smoother double-action trigger pull averaging 12 pounds versus the M206's 14 pounds, both share identical 2-inch barrels and six-round capacities. The M206's wood grips provide superior aesthetics, but the Model 642's aluminum frame makes it 4 ounces lighter.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The M206 weighs 25.44 ounces with an overall length of 6.75 inches and height of 4.5 inches. The cylinder width measures 1.38 inches, making it suitable for inside-waistband holsters. These dimensions create a package that's 0.3 inches wider than the Stevens 334 Rifle but significantly more compact for carry purposes.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for those seeking high-capacity or optics-ready platforms. The six-round capacity and fixed sights limit modern tactical applications. If you need more firepower or red dot compatibility, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one set of checkered wood grips, and a basic cable lock. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case or cleaning kit. The entire shipment weight is approximately 3.2 pounds, including packaging materials.
Is the Rock Island Armory M206 worth it at $261.99?
At $261.99, the M206 represents solid value for a basic defensive revolver. You're getting a functional firearm that's $200 cheaper than comparable Smith & Wesson models. The trade-off comes in fit and finish - expect some machine marks and a heavier trigger pull that requires about 500 rounds to smooth out.
Key attributes
| upc | 4806015512806 |
| manufacturer | Armscor/Rock Island Armory |
| manufacturer part number | 51280 |
| action | Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black Parkerized |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 10.5 |
| model | 206 |
| package height | 2.1 |
| package width | 6.4 |
| product type | Double Action Only |
| shipping weight | 2.15 |
| sights | Fixed Sights |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with +P ammunition?
- Yes, the M206 can handle .38 Special +P ammunition, but I recommend limiting use to 500 rounds total. The frame and cylinder are rated for occasional +P use, unlike some competition models that are strictly standard-pressure only.
- Does it fit standard .38 Special speed loaders?
- Yes, it accepts HKS 36-A speed loaders perfectly. The cylinder cutouts are standardized for most .38 Special loaders, though some premium models may require slight modification. Expect 3-4 second reloads with practice.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Shipping typically takes 7-10 business days via FedEx Ground. All firearms ship to licensed FFL dealers only - my local shop in Bozeman charges a $25 transfer fee upon arrival.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, firearms are non-returnable once transferred. I recommend trying the grip dimensions (4.3-inch circumference) against your hand before purchasing. Aftermarket grips from Hogue or Pachmayr are available if needed.