Colt Viper .38 Spl. ‘Snake Gun’ Single/Double Action 4” Revolver MFD 1977
SOLD FOR: $4,775.00
LSB#: LSB260225RB077
Make: Colt
Model: Viper
Serial Number: 64082R
Year of Manufacture: 1977 / Modern
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked with “=VIPER=” / “.38 SPECIAL CTG”. The left side of the frame is marked with the Rampant Colt logo. The right side of the barrel is marked with “COLT’S PT. FA. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”. The crane arm and crane cut are marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 4” Low Profile Rib / Half length underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade integral to the rib.. The rear sight is a square notched milled into the topstrap of the receiver frame. The top strap is serrated, and the rib has a matte finish for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered walnut with no medallions. There is minor scratching and handling wear, focused around the butt of the grips. Overall, the grips rate in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The finish shows light operational wear and scratching. The finish has ‘frosted’ in some areas of the barrel and on the back strap. There is minor corrosion freckling along the top of the barrel. There are fire marks and carbon buildup on the front face of the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp, with light tooling. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and the cylinder lockup is tight, with minimal play. There is no end shake. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Colt ‘woodgrain’ box (cannot confirm serial matching) and paperwork.
Our Assessment: The Colt Viper occupies a unique place within Colt’s famous “Snake Gun” family, introduced in 1977 as a lightweight variation of the Detective Special platform intended for trail carry, plainclothes use, and general defensive purposes. Built with an aluminum alloy frame and chambered in .38 Special, the Viper blended Colt’s renowned double action lockwork with a more compact and easily carried configuration. Though produced only briefly, the model has become increasingly sought after among collectors due to its limited production numbers and direct association with Colt’s iconic Snake Gun lineage. Chambered in .38 Special, a cartridge introduced in 1898 and long considered one of America’s definitive revolver rounds, the Viper reflects the practical defensive revolver philosophy of the late 1970s while retaining the elegant lines and smooth action Colt revolvers are known for.
This 1977-produced example remains in Fine condition with strong original nickel finish retention and only light evidence of operational and handling wear. The revolver presents attractively with its low-profile ribbed barrel, half-length underlug, and checkered walnut stocks, while areas of light frosting and minor freckling add character consistent with age and storage. The bright bore, tight lockup, and minimal cylinder play reflect careful preservation, and the included Colt woodgrain box and paperwork enhance the overall package. Snake Guns have long held a special place among Colt enthusiasts, and the Viper’s short production run has made it one of the more elusive variations, especially in high condition. This revolver captures the refined styling and smooth handling that helped establish Colt’s enduring reputation in the double action revolver market. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY