COLT Diamondback .357 Magnum .38 Special DA/SA Double Action Revolver, 1967
SOLD FOR: $1052.99
LSB#: 210811TH09
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback
Serial Number: D13272
Year of Manufacture: 1967 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .357 Magnum and .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DIAMONDBACK / .357 & .38 SPECIAL CTG.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The side plate has Colt’s rampant colt logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut also has an inspection mark.
Barrel Length: 2 1/2” with Full Underlug and Ventilated Rib
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade with green insert that is integral to the ventilated rib; the rib and topstrap are matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grip is a two-piece black checkered rubber Pachmayr Presentation grip. There are moderate handling marks and both panels are quite worn. The checkering is visible. Overall, the grips are in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright. The rifling is sharp. There is some erosion at the muzzle.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 88% of its metal finish. Moderate thinning can be seen on the ejector rod shroud, either side of the barrel, and on the front sight. There is light thinning on the edges of the topstrap. The right side bottom of the frame and trigger guard have light thinning on the edges. The cylinder has moderate thinning on all edges along with scattered spots of light surface oxidation. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up solidly on each chamber with the trigger depressed. The double action trigger is smooth, the single action is light and crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Diamondback is essentially a shorter framed Python both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic dynamics and is no less striking in appearance and mechanics than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 88% of its finish with wear consistent with heavy and consistent use. The ‘positive lock’ action provides SOLID cylinder lockup, with smooth double and single action trigger pulls. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. While most of Colt’s Serpent revolvers are collectible and all appear to be appreciating in value, this could still make for a nice carry revolver today, more than 50 years after it was made. Please see our pictures and good luck!