COLT Cobra .38 Special DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1974 Colt Letter
SOLD FOR: $1100.01
LSB#: 220108CG006
Make: Colt
Model: Cobra
Serial Number: F97036
Year of Manufacture: 1974 (per the included letter from Colt historian, Beverly Jean Haynes)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “COBRA / .38 SPECIAL CTG.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD CONN. U.S.A.” The left side plate has a Rampant Colt logo, the left of the frame has a “VP” in triangle at the front of the trigger guard and “J” at the rear. The crane and crane cut are marked “F97036”.
Barrel Length: 2 1/8”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade running the length of the barrel that is integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch in a “U” channel on top of the frame.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are checkered walnut mounted to the round-butt frame. The checkering is well-defined. Lower edges of both panels have a few light spots of finish loss. Minor nicks are scattered throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-to-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue with Black Alloy Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. Light holster and draw wear can be seen on both sides of the barrel. Light nicks dot the edges of the top strap. There is a spot of moderate finish loss at the top of the back strap while minor nicks are scattered across the grip frame. There is one more notable nick through the finish on the side plate just over the Rampant Colt. The cylinder has a very faint turn line. The markings are clear. The grip screws are sharp. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces solid full lockup of all 6 chambers with a smooth double action trigger pull, the single action pull is 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 revolver comes with a provenance letter from Colt historian Beverly Jean Haynes.
Our Assessment: The Colt Cobra is a lightweight version of the Detective Special, with an alloy frame rather than steel. This is great for concealed carry as the weight won’t pull down your garments quite so much. This example is in Fine condition and appears to have been carried frequently, but not fired much. Nearly all of the wear to the finish can be attributed to the holster, but the cylinder has a very faint turn line, the bore is bright and the front face of the cylinder is mostly free of burn rings. This revolver could serve very well returning to the role of concealed carry, or it would make a nice addition to a revolver or Colt collection. Good luck and happy bidding!