COLT Diamondback .22 Long Rifle DA/SA Double Action Revolver 1969 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2200
LSB#: 220127PK006
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback
Serial Number: D30135
Year of Manufacture: 1969 (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 trigger guard bow is marked “0”. The crane and crane cut are marked with the serial number, “D30135”.
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 top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood, each with silver-colored Colt medallions at the top. The panels have darkened somewhat from handling and there are a few minor nicks in the smooth areas. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-to-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. Along the left side of the revolver there is tell-tale holster wear at the barrel tip that resolves into minor nicks, some through the finish, the frame has light wear through the finish from crane arm operation, and there are a few minor nicks on the top strap. Along the right side of the revolver there are minor tool marks/nicks on the upper edges of the top strap, light finish loss on the frame chin, and matching tell-tale holster wear at the barrel tip. The cylinder has a faint turn line along with minor nicks along the flutes and moderate thinning on forward edges. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good-to-Fine 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, consistent cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Diamondback includes its serial matching factory box with and a test-fire target.
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 90% of its finish with wear firmly in line with consistent range time. Chambered as it is for .22 Long Rifle, this will make for a great shooter/plinker 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!