Colt Diamondback Model D5540 Blue 4″ .38 Special Revolver, MFD 1967 C&R

SODL FOR: $1800

LSB#: 210205MS03

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback Model D5540

Serial Number: D11444

Year of Manufacture: 1967 (https://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 / .38 SPECIAL CTG.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, the rear with “P”. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut also has an inspection mark.

Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade that is integral to the ventilated rib; the rib is 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 with silver-colored Colt medallions at their tops. There are a few scattered nicks and scuffs, the most notable are on the bottom faces of the grips. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine 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 96% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges, most notable at leading edges of the barrel and frame. There are a few scattered minor nicks and scratches. The action shows minor operational wear including a thin turn-line on the cylinder. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine-plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with no play on each chamber with the trigger depressed. The double action trigger is smooth, the single action is crisp. 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: None.

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. This revolver retains about 96% of its finish with light wear in the grips, sporting a bright, sharp bore and solid cylinder lockup. This will make for as beautiful a display piece as it would a shooter. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. Please see our pictures and good luck!