Colt Diamondback Model D5161 Nickel 6″ .22 LR SA/DA Revolver, 1980
SOLD FOR: $2912.99
LSB#: 220929SS012
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback, Model D5161
Serial Number: S60359
Year of Manufacture: 1980 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted 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, 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 “Q” on the rear portion. The crane and crane cut have the serial number.
Barrel Length: 6” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade pinned to the ventilated 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, pinned to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut stocks with gold-colored Colt logo medallions. The grips have only a few light marks and some shallow compressions along the back of the left panel. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is infrequent faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates a 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The action shows minor operational wear with a very thin, light turn-line on the cylinder. The finish is strong throughout with a few scattered minor marks, including a nick on the right edge of the trigger guard. The rear sideplate screw has odd dishing and marks at the edge, but the condition of the markings does not indicate refinishing. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine 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 faux-cardboard Colt box with two-piece styrofoam inserts. The box is missing all of its ears and has extensive tape-repairs.
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 1980 vintage revolver retains about 97% of its desirable nickel finish, sporting a good bore and solid cylinder lockup with signs of limited and responsible use. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. This will make for as beautiful a display piece, especially with its high condition, but it should also prove to be a great shooter. Please see our pictures and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
