Colt Diamondback D5541 Nickel 4″ .38 Special SA/DA Revolver & Box, MFD 1977
SOLD FOR: $2312.99
LSB#: 220420JR055
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback Model D5541
Serial Number: R08922
Year of Manufacture: 1977
Caliber: .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 / .38 SPECIAL CTG.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”, the left side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, and “K” on the rear portion. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut is also marked “Y”.
Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade that is integral to the ventilated rib; the rib is matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a blade that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one piece smooth wood with finger grooves which leaves the backstrap exposed and attaches with a Hogue bracket at the bottom of the grip frame. The grip has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip is in Excellent condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 90% of its metal finish. The left of the barrel and frame have extensive but very light wear, not through the finish, giving it a slightly frosted appearance. The right of the frame and barrel do not show this wear, there are some scattered light marks and a patch of light scratches at the rear of the right side of the frame under the hammer, not through the finish. The cylinder has a faint turn line and a few spots of light wear. The hammer serrations are sharp. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with no play on each chamber while the trigger is depressed. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a faux-wood cardboard Colt box with serial-matching label, two-piece styrofoam inserts and yellow “stop-sign” hang tag. The box has a tear at the non-label end, light fraying at corners and wear along edges with some light scuffing in the faces.
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 than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 95% of its finish sporting a bright, sharp bore and damage free after-market stock. 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 but in its high condition and with its original box it will probably be a collector’s piece at the end of the auction. Please see our pictures and good luck!