Colt Diamondback .38 Spl 4″ DA/SA Double Action Single Action Revolver 1978

SOLD FOR: $1,525.00

LSB#: LSB251016KS013

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: R25714

Year of Manufacture: 1978 / Modern (

Caliber: .38 S&W Special

Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked, “DIAMONDBACK .38 SPECIAL CTG.”  The right side of the barrel is marked “COLTS PT.F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CONN U.S.A.”  The inside of the crane and crane cut is marked “R25714” with an “E”.   The left side of the frame is marked with the Rampant Colt.  The front of the trigger guard has a “VP” proof mark.

Barrel Length:  4” vent ribbed

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade fixed to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch pinned to the top strap.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are a two-piece walnut grips with gold  Colt medallions. There are a few minor handling marks present. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.  

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is very minor fouling in the lands. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The leading edges are thinning. There is a barely visible intermittent turn line. There are a few small marks and smudges on the frame.  The screw heads are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine  condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. The action is smooth and the lockup is tight.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: Original Colt factory box and paperwork (matching)

Our Assessment: Introduced in 1966, the Colt Diamondback was conceived as a refined, smaller framed counterpart to the legendary Colt Python, sharing its ventilated rib barrel profile, adjustable sights, and high polish blue finish. Built on Colt’s D frame, the Diamondback occupied the top tier of Colt’s double action revolver lineup and quickly earned the collector nickname “Baby Python.” By the late 1970s, the model had become emblematic of Colt’s golden era, when hand fitting, visual refinement, and mechanical polish defined the brand’s revolver production.

This 4 inch .38 Special configuration is widely regarded as one of the most desirable Diamondback variants, offering excellent balance and fast handling while retaining the distinctive ribbed barrel profile that set the model apart. The strong blued finish, crisp Rampant Colt markings, and sharp checkering on the walnut medallion grips reflect careful ownership and limited use. The adjustable sights and classic Colt sight picture further reinforce the Diamondback’s dual role as both a practical shooting revolver and a presentation grade firearm.

Mechanically, this revolver exhibits the smooth double action pull and tight lockup for which Colt revolvers of this period are especially respected. With a bright, sharply rifled bore and overall fine condition, this Diamondback stands as a compelling example of Colt’s premium .38 Special revolver craftsmanship from the late 1970s. It represents an increasingly scarce opportunity to acquire a classic Colt that bridges the gap between functional excellence and enduring collector appeal. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and best of luck with your bids!!!-

BF