Colt Diamondback .22 LR 6″ DA/SA Double Action Single Action Revolver, 1978

SOLD FOR: $1,800.00

LSB#: LSB251115DJ009

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: R59026

Year of Manufacture: 1978 / Modern

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked, “DIAMONDBACK /.22 LONG RIFLE”   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 “R59026” .   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: 6″ Vented

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a 1/8″ 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 only very minor handling marks present. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent 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. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is a very faint  turn line.  There are no carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. 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 but the crane is very stiff which makes the cylinder difficult to swing out. 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: Factory cardboard 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 quickly earned the nickname “Baby Python” among collectors and shooters alike. By 1978, when this example was manufactured, the model had firmly established its reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, smooth action, and elegant lines representative of Colt’s golden era of double-action revolver production.

This 6″ .22 LR example retains approximately 98% of its original blued finish. There is a very faint turn line on the cylinder but no carbon rings on the cylinder face. A few small marks and light smudges are present on the frame consistent with careful handling. The screw heads remain sharp with strong slots, and the markings are clear and well-defined. The two-piece walnut grips with gold Colt medallions show only very minor handling marks. The checkering is sharp, and the grips rate in Excellent condition, complementing the revolver’s refined appearance.

The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating 9.5/10 in this writer’s opinion. Mechanically, the action functions correctly with a smooth double-action pull and tight lockup. The crane is noted to be very stiff, making the cylinder somewhat difficult to swing out and likely in need of cleaning or lubrication. We did not fire this revolver. Accompanied by its matching factory cardboard box and paperwork, this 1978 Diamondback represents a Fine-condition example of one of Colt’s most desirable rimfire revolvers. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

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