Rock Island Armory M200 Review

Experience the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38, a .38 Special with a 5-round capacity and a compact 1.9″ barrel. Lightweight at 14.4 oz, it features a polymer frame, stainless steel barrel and cylinder, integrated laser sight, double-action trigger, and a hammerless design for a smooth draw. The M200 falls into a category of firearms that are both practical for self-defense and appealing to those with an interest in shooting sports. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at the RIA M200, exploring its specifications, design features, performance, and potential use cases.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the M200 is straightforward, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. It has a solid steel frame that gives it a durable and robust feel, capable of withstanding the wear and tear of regular use. The revolver comes with a matte black finish, giving it a classic look while also providing resistance against corrosion and scratches. The grips are made from polymer, designed to offer a comfortable and secure hold, which is crucial for maintaining control and accuracy when firing.

One of the notable design features of the M200 is its fixed front sight and groove rear sight, which are simple yet effective for quick target acquisition in various lighting conditions. Although not as advanced as some modern sighting systems, this setup is more than adequate for the intended use of the M200, emphasizing reliability and ease of use.

Performance

The performance of the RIA M200 is where it truly shines, offering reliability and accuracy at an affordable price point. Users of the M200 often praise its smooth trigger pull in both double-action and single-action modes, which facilitates better control and precision. The revolver’s balance and ergonomic design contribute to its manageability, reducing shooter fatigue and allowing for longer practice sessions or use in defensive situations.

Despite its budget-friendly nature, the M200 does not compromise on reliability. It is known for its consistent performance, even after thousands of rounds. The choice of .38 Special caliber also means that users have a wide variety of ammunition options to choose from, including lower recoil loads for practice and more powerful rounds for self-defense.

Pros and Cons

My Personal Maintenance Routine Rock Island Armory M200

• Safety First Always start by checking that your revolver is unloaded. Open the cylinder and visually inspect each chamber to make sure there are no rounds present. Safety should always be your number one priority.
• Disassemble with Care Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely disassemble your M200. You typically won’t need to fully strip it for regular maintenance, just open the cylinder and ensure access to all parts that require cleaning.
• Wipe Down the Exterior Using a soft, clean cloth, gently wipe down the exterior of your revolver. This removes any dirt, residue, or fingerprints that can accumulate and potentially cause wear over time.
• Clean the Barrel and Cylinder Use a bore brush and cleaning solvent to scrub the inside of the barrel and each chamber of the cylinder. This will remove built-up fouling and lead deposits. Follow up with a patch soaked in solvent, and then dry patches until they come out clean.
• Lubricate Moving Parts Apply a small amount of gun oil to the moving parts of your revolver, including the ejector rod, cylinder release, and the hinge between the cylinder and frame. This keeps the action smooth and prevents rust.
• Check for Wear Regularly inspect your revolver for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks in the frame or issues with the firing pin. Early detection can prevent future malfunctions.
• Clean the Grip If your grips are made of a material that can be safely cleaned with soap and water (like polymer), give them a gentle wash. If they’re made of wood or another sensitive material, just wipe them down with a dry cloth.
• Reassemble and Function Check Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble your revolver. Perform a function check by working the action and dry firing (in a safe direction and ensuring the gun is still unloaded) to confirm everything operates smoothly.
• Store Properly Store your M200 in a dry, secure place. Consider using a silicone gun cloth for a final wipe down before storage to add an extra layer of rust protection.
• Record Keeping Keep a log of your cleaning sessions and any maintenance work done on your revolver. This helps track the health of your firearm and can be valuable information for any future troubleshooting or repairs.

Safety Tips

• Always assume a firearm is loaded, even if you believe it’s not. This mindset encourages cautious handling and prevents accidents.
• Only point your firearm at something you intend to shoot. “Safe direction” means that even if the gun were to go off, it wouldn’t cause injury or damage.
• Keep your finger outside the trigger guard and off the trigger until you are actually ready to fire. This prevents unintentional discharges, which can occur from sudden movements or surprises.
• Before you shoot, know exactly what you’re aiming at, and be aware of what’s behind and around your target. Bullets can penetrate targets and travel significant distances, potentially causing unintended harm.
• Always wear protective eyewear and earplugs or earmuffs when shooting or when in the vicinity of shooting activities. This protects your eyes from debris and your ears from the harmful noise of gunshots.

Rock Island Armory M200: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Aspect	Review Summary	Score
Cleaning Frequency	Requires regular cleaning after use for reliability. Simplicity makes it less of a chore compared to more complex firearms.	9/10
Lubrication	Essential for smooth operation; straightforward due to the revolver’s design. Regular lubrication is key but not overly demanding.	8/10
Inspection	Critical for identifying wear or damage. The M200’s durable construction generally holds up well, making this process efficient.	8/10
Storage Conditions	Moderate. The M200’s finish and construction resist corrosion, but proper storage is advisable to prevent moisture damage.	7/10
Ammunition Check	Vital for ensuring performance. The .38 Special ammo used in the M200 is robust, but rotation and inspection are recommended.	8/10
Parts Replacement	Rarely needed for casual shooters due to the revolver’s durability. Timely replacement can enhance longevity.	7/10
Professional Servicing	Beneficial annually, especially for heavily used revolvers. The M200’s design allows for straightforward servicing.	7/10
Accessory Care	Minimal accessories required. Care for any attached sights or grips is straightforward, enhancing the shooting experience.	8/10
Training Regularity	Regular practice is beneficial for familiarity and reliability. The M200’s user-friendly nature supports consistent training.	9/10
Safety Gear Maintenance	Essential for protection. The need is universal across firearms, and maintaining gear ensures safety during use.	9/10

Conclusion

The Rock Island Armory M200 represents an outstanding balance of affordability, reliability, and functionality. Its design and construction are focused on delivering a practical and durable revolver that meets the needs of a wide range of users. Whether for self-defense, target shooting, or as a backup firearm, the M200 offers a compelling option for those in search of a .38 Special revolver that won’t break the bank but will deliver when it counts. Its reputation within the firearms community as a reliable and affordable option underscores Armscor’s commitment to quality and accessibility in the firearms market.

FAQs

• What caliber is the Rock Island Armory M200?
  The M200 is chambered in .38 Special, a versatile and popular caliber for self-defense and target shooting.
• How many rounds can the M200 hold?
  The revolver has a 6-round capacity, which is standard for many revolvers of its size and caliber.
• Is the M200 suitable for beginners?
  Yes, its simple design, manageable recoil, and ease of use make the M200 a good choice for beginners.
• Can I use the M200 for home defense?
  Absolutely. The .38 Special caliber, combined with the revolver’s reliability, makes it a solid option for home defense.
• How often should I clean my M200?
  It’s recommended to clean the M200 after each use to ensure optimal performance and longevity. A more thorough cleaning and inspection should be done periodically, depending on usage.
• What type of ammunition should I use with the M200?
  The M200 can use a wide range of .38 Special ammunition. Selection should be based on intended use, such as target practice or self-defense, with appropriate rounds for each.
• Does the M200 have a safety feature?
  The M200 does not have a manual safety, typical of many revolvers. Its safety mechanisms include a heavy double-action trigger pull and the practice of leaving the chamber under the hammer empty when not in use.
• Can I mount a scope or sight on the M200?
  The M200 does not come with a rail for mounting optics. It has fixed sights, which are adequate for its intended use and range.
• What is the best way to store the M200 when not in use?
  Store it unloaded in a cool, dry place, preferably in a locked gun safe or with a trigger lock for added safety. Use a silicone-treated cloth for extra protection against rust.
• How does the M200 compare to other revolvers in its price range?
  The M200 stands out for its reliability, ease of maintenance, and affordability. While it may lack some of the advanced features of higher-priced revolvers, it offers great value and performance for its cost.

We’re eager to connect with you! If you’ve had the chance to use the Rock Island Armory M200, we’d love for you to share your personal experiences and insights in the comments section below. Whether it’s about its performance, maintenance, or how it fares in different scenarios, your feedback could be incredibly valuable to fellow enthusiasts and those considering this revolver. Help the community make informed decisions with your firsthand knowledge!