Colt Diamondback D5540 German Proofed .38 Spl. Double Action Revolver, 1977

Sold For: $1,480.55

LSB#: 220606JS013

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback, Model D5540

Serial Number: N07963

Year of Manufacture: 1977 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)

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 / .22 .385 SPECIAL CTG.” and has a German nitro proof, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”, the side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, and “2” on the rear portion. The crane and crane cut have the serial number; the cut is also marked “1 ein” over other illegible markings. The left side of the frame is marked with a German nitro proof mark, Munich proof house acceptance, and a Munich test year of “77”. The left side of the top strap bears the import mark of Helmut Hoffman of Mellrichstadt, Germany.

Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade fixed to the ventilated rib; the rib is matte finished for glare reduction. A small rectangle of orange paint has been applied to the front sight. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The installed grip is one-piece checkered wood with a palm swell on either side and a capped butt strap. The grip shows no significant wear or damage and the checkering is sharp. The installed grip is in about excellent condition.

The included original grips are two-piece checkered walnut stocks with gold-colored Colt logo medallions. There is a minor spot of discoloration on the left grip checkering. Otherwise, the grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

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 99% of its metal finish. There is a very thin, light turn-line on the cylinder. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup is tight with no movement on all 6 chambers when the trigger is depressed. 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: This revolver comes in a soft Allen zip-up case with the original grips.

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. The model was offered in .38 Special as well as .22 Long Rifle, like this one. This revolver retains about 99% of its finish, sporting a bright, sharp bore and solid cylinder lockup with little sign of use. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. This example bears German proof marks and was imported into Germany by Helmut Hoffman. Oftentimes, U.S. soldiers stationed in Germany would purchase a gun while stationed overseas and bring it back with them after their deployment, which is likely the case for this revolver. This will make for a beautiful display piece, especially with its original box, but it would also be a great shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!

Colt Diamondback D5540 German Proofed .38 Spl. Double Action Revolver, 1977
Colt Diamondback D5540 German Proofed .38 Spl. Double Action Revolver, 1977