COLT Diamondback .22 Long Rifle DA/SA Double Action Revolver 1981
SOLD FOR: $1925
LSB#: 210923SS54
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback
Serial Number: S80170
Year of Manufacture: 1981 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: DA/SA Double and Single Action 6-Shot Swing Out Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DIAMONDBACK / .22 LONG RIFLE.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, the rear with “V”. The crane and crane cut are marked with the serial number, “S80170”.
Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug and Ventilated Rib
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade that is pinned to the vented 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 that is pinned to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood, each with gold-colored Colt medallions at the top. There are minor handling marks and the bottom of both panels have a few light compressions. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well-defined. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion, but there is a bit of minor stubborn fouling at the throat.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are just a few minor marks on the barrel and frame. The cylinder has a faint turn line not through the finish. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-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 revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Diamondback includes its serial matching factory box with styrofoam inlay and various factory paperwork including the manual.
Our Assessment: The Diamondback is a shorter framed Python with a dash of the Detective Special, both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic qualities and is no less striking in appearance than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 98% of its finish with some scattered wear that is most notable on the barrel. This will make for a great shooter or will do well to help fill out a collection of Serpent guns. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of; this one should prove to be no different. Good luck and happy bidding!